Ouagadougou: Twenty artists and troupes announced for the patriotic concert on October 18 at the TheStre Populaire The Desire Bonego Popular Theater in Samandin will rise from its ashes this Saturday, October 18, 2025, starting at 4 p.m. to the rhythm of a grand patriotic concert, under the patronage of the Minister in charge of Communication, Pingdwende Gilbert Ouedraogo. More than twenty Burkinabe artists and troupes are expected to offer a free show entirely dedicated to national culture and artistic sovereignty.
According to Burkina Information Agency, preparations are proceeding very well. “We are very satisfied and we confirm that we will offer a great show to the Burkinabe people,” he said, adding that the expected audience is estimated at between 2,500 and 3,000 people, meaning a full house at the TheStre Populaire.
This concert, free and open to all from 4 p.m., is intended as a rendezvous with history. It will immerse spectators in the genesis of the TheStre Populaire, through testimonies from those who contributed to its creation and emblematic figures who have left their mark on Burkinabe cultural life.
The program will combine music, traditional dance, humor, stories, slam in French and Moore, as well as various artistic performances.
Among the artists announced are Abdoulaye Cisse, Amety Meria, and the Bassave family, living symbols of the national cultural wealth.
Mr. Abassague clarified that only Burkinabe artists will be featured: “We are talking about sovereignty. Our artists have the same value as foreign artists.”
He stressed that this initiative is part of the vision of President Thomas Sankara, who wanted to make the TheStre Populaire a place where “the fire of Burkinabe culture shines and reaches the world.”
Assuring that all safety and comfort measures have been taken, the director of CENASA invited the public to arrive early so as not to run out of space. He concluded by saluting all those who, over the decades, have worked to preserve and revive this legendary space, a symbol of Burkina Faso’s cultural vitality.