‘Important to realise extent to which slavery has dehumanised both master and slave’: Modibo Konaté

Excerpts:

How did this project start and how did you end up getting this prominent role?

One day I was in a car with Jean Louis Sagot-Duvauroux, the director of the Harlequin Theater in Morsang sur Orge, and we were listening to Louis Armstrong’s gospel. I asked Jean Louis: “Who is this singer? I have the impression that his voice is a little sad”. That’s when Jean Louis explained the story of Jazz and the Blues to me, and he also told me about Memoirs of a Slave. Later, he said we could do a theatre and dance piece on it. I was very interested. Eventually, Jean Louis adapted the book to the stage.

2) How do you think the story of Frédérick Douglass is still making an impact today?

Frederick’s story is very frustrating but it is worth passing on his story as a message. It’s important to realise the extent to which slavery has dehumanised both the master and the slave. The story of this gentleman is an example of courage. Students in Africa are still given this book to read in school.

3) What has been your favorite moment throughout the play?

My favorite part is when Frédérick Douglass comes to the realisation that the only way to escape slavery is by learning to read and write.

4) Have you had any memorable interactions with people after your performance?

Yes! I’ve had many memorable post-show interactions with the audience. Many have invited me to perform the piece in their own cities. It’s very touching!

5) This is your first time in Pune; so, how is the city treating you?

People of Pune are very welcoming, much like the ones I have met in other cities in India. I also had the pleasure of taking part in a couple of workshops organised by Alliance Française de Pune at Pune University and Hrishikesh Centre for Contemporary Dance. I was delighted to see how curious and enthusiastic their students were.