Cirque Baobab - Yongoyely

Yongoyely emerges from the stories of Guinean women themselves - about what they carry, both figuratively and literally. About daily life where heavy burdens are balanced on the head, and how people carry each other through community. Ancient traditions that still shape the body.

Eight circus artists take the stage in a symbolically rich scenography where every element carries meaning. Women balance concrete blocks on their heads, climb ropes that threaten to snap, and throw themselves freely through the air. Carrying weight on the head - a central skill for many African women - is presented as both necessity and a demonstration of strength. The performance is raw yet poetic, a visual conversation about women's conditions, liberation, and identity in contemporary Guinea. Through song, music, dance, and circus, something deeply hopeful emerges.

The Franco-Guinean Cirque Baobab was founded in 1998 and combines traditional West African acrobatics with contemporary circus. Gothenburg's dance and theatre festival presented the company's performance Yé! in 2024. Beyond touring, they run social and educational initiatives for young people in Guinea and internationally.

After the performance, the Crystal Foyer is open for meet and greet with the artists. Single tickets go on sale 21 May.