Theatre: Senegal wins two distinctions at FIESAD 2026

Senegalese theatrical creation has distinguished itself in Morocco. On the occasion of the 12th edition of the International Festival of Higher Schools of Dramatic Art (FIESAD), organized from October 30 to November 2, 2026 in Rabat, Senegal won two distinctions: the prize for best male performance and the jury prize, thanks to the play “La Graine de la discorde”.

Senegal stood out among the countries participating in this international meeting dedicated to young theatrical creation. This edition brought together artistic establishments from seven countries: Senegal, Cuba, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, Poland and the Netherlands. Around ten performances were offered to the public during the four days of the festival.

Presented by the Senegalese delegation, “The Seed of Discord” depicts a neighborhood story which, from a trivial dispute, takes on the proportions of a collective tragedy.

The plot begins in a village where two men, Demba and Mamadou, see their relations deteriorate because of a red hen belonging to Mamadou. The animal enters Demba’s field and pecks at some peanut seeds. Furious, the latter decides to kill his neighbor’s chicken.

Hurt by this act, Mamadou in turn chooses revenge. He sets Demba’s fields on fire, causing a fire that eventually burns down the village. From a simple neighborhood quarrel arises a confrontation which gradually takes on the dimensions of a world war.

Through this story, the play reflects on the mechanisms of escalating violence, pride and the sometimes disproportionate consequences of revenge. She recalls in particular that a conflict, even born from an insignificant incident, can lead to disastrous consequences when it escapes any desire for dialogue and reconciliation.

The moral of the work is contained in a formula: “There are no quarrels, there are only small minds who do not know where revenge leads. » With these two distinctions won in Rabat, the Senegalese delegation confirms the potential of young national theatrical creation and its ability to bring, on international stages, stories with universal resonance.