Three films by French filmmaker Sarah Maldoror, that look at carnival and celebration after independence in West Africa in the 1980s.
Across the last few years, the life and work of Sarah Maldoror (1929-2020) has become a staple across international film festivals.
Her large body of work has been finding its way back into the public consciousness, due to restorations and the tireless work of her daughters Annouchka de Andrade and Henda Ducados, who have been looking after her estate and maintaining her legacy.
These three films, made between 1979 -1980, were made at the invitation of the leaders of Cape Verde & Guinea-Bissau, to document the countries’ newfound independence.
Though not envisioned as a trilogy, Maldoror captures May Day celebrations and the preparation for carnivals. In doing so, her camera captures the energy, spirit and joy that these celebrations create, but also the role they play in establishing a sense of community in the aftermath of independence.
With thanks to Annouchka De Andrade.
Ticket prices
Students £11
Unwaged £11
Over 60s £11
Under 18s £6
Wheelchair spaces, free companion seats may now be booked online.
Please select the relevant preferences on the access registration page during your booking, so we can provide you with the correct information and discounts.
Booking a wheelchair space
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Booking fees
£1.50 booking fee per online/phone transaction.
No fee when tickets are booked in person.
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Programme
Fogo, l’île de feu
Sarah Maldoror, 1979, Francia - Capo Verde, 33'
- A vibrant portrayal of the May Day celebrations in Cape Verde, highlighting the island’s cultural resilience and historical importance.
Cap-Vert, un carnaval dans le Sahel
Sarah Maldoror, 1979, Francia - Capo Verde, 28’
- A captivating look at the colorful preparations and celebrations of Cape Verde’s unique carnival traditions.
À Bissau, le carnaval
Sarah Maldoror, 1980, Guinea-Bissau, 30’
- An insightful glimpse into the festive spirit and cultural expression of Guinea-Bissau’s carnival, reflecting the joy and unity of its people.
Let our screens bring you closer
Cinema 2
Location
Barbican Cinema 2 & 3 are located on Beech Street, a short walk from the Barbican’s Silk Street entrance. From Silk Street, you’ll see a zebra crossing that will take you across the road to the venue.
Address
Beech Street
London
EC2Y 8DS
Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.
We’ve plenty of places for you to relax and replenish, from coffee and cake to wood-fired pizzas and full pre-theatre menus
Access
Cinemas 2 & 3 are located at Beech Street, a short walk from the Barbican Centre’s main Silk Street entrance. There are a couple of steep, dropped kerbs and an incline to negotiate between the two sites. Level access from Beech Street.
Mobility
Each auditorium has three permanent wheelchair spaces (two in the third row and one in the front row) and 153 fixed seats with capacity for a further three spaces in the front row. Access to each auditorium is up a ramp. There are also a number of seats with step-free access.
Assistance dogs
Assistance dogs may be taken into the cinema – please tell us when booking to ensure your seat has enough space. If you prefer, you may leave your dog with a member of the foyer staff during the performance.
Hearing facility
An infrared system for hard of hearing customers is provided in each auditorium; headsets or neck loops can be collected from foyer staff. The ticket desk counter is fitted with an induction loop.
For more access information, please visit our Accessibility section.
