As We Are: Germaine Acogny and Gregory Maqoma reunite in Paris

Germaine Acogny and Gregory Maqoma share top billing in As We Are at the Théâtre de la Ville–Sarah Bernhardt from October 12 to 18, 2026. The program brings together two works: Joséphine, led by Germaine Acogny and centered on Joséphine Baker, and Bantu, Gregory Maqoma’s new piece for twelve dancers.

In Joséphine, Germaine Acogny explores the multiple facets of Joséphine Baker's life, from her stand against racism to her participation in the Resistance. The choreography comes from Germaine Acogny and Alesandra Seutin, while Mikaël Serre handles direction and dramaturgy. The original score is composed by Fabrice Bouillon-LaForest.

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Created in Paris in September 2025, the production centers on the presence of Germaine Acogny, a leading figure in African contemporary dance and founder of the École des Sables in Senegal. The costumes were designed by PALOMA, the artist-in-residence house at 19M.

With Bantu, Gregory Maqoma gathers twelve dancers from diverse traditions. The piece pays tribute to Germaine Acogny’s teaching while addressing the social realities across the African continent. The music is by Yogin Sullaphen and the costumes are from Black Coffee Designs. The work had its world premiere in Johannesburg in January 2026.

Titled As We Are, the two pieces make up a program of about 1h25 with intermission. Performances are scheduled for 8 p.m., with a 3 p.m. session on Sunday, October 18. A performance of Bantu is also planned for Saturday, October 17 at 3 p.m., followed by a talk with Germaine Acogny and Gregory Maqoma.

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