A Journey Shaped by MASA Lab Incubation

Selected through MASA Lab—the incubation and acceleration program of the Marché des Arts du Spectacle Africain (MASA) in Abidjan—Ruth Tafébé refined her unique artistic universe during this residency. Supported by the French Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire via the Fonds Équipe France (FEF), this initiative professionalizes artists, teams, and cultural operators in music, dance, and theater

Through tailored training, technical and creative support, and backing for national and international distribution, MASA Lab catapults emerging talents into the spotlight. For Ruth, this experience was pivotal: she honed afropop rhythms interwoven with traditional Ivorian influences, all carried by introspective lyrics.

Passage: An Inner Journey in 10 Unreleased Tracks

The album Passage delves into themes of inner journeys, resilience, and life’s transitions. Comprising 10 unreleased tracks, it stems from collaborations with exceptional producers. Ruth Tafébé displays remarkable artistic maturity, blending modernity and roots to craft a sound that’s both universal and deeply rooted in Ivorian identity.

This opus not only marks the end of a fruitful residency but also the dawn of a new era for the artist, ready to conquer local and international stages.

Program for a Festive and Accessible Evening

The event, free and open to the public, promises total immersion in Ruth Tafébé’s universe. Here’s what awaits attendees:

• Discover live previews of Passage‘s standout tracks.
• Engage in exclusive exchanges with the artist about her journey and inspirations.
• Celebrate her inspiring path alongside professionals, cultural partners, and fans.

This residency showcase offers a rare chance to meet a rising artist and savor the fruits of a program that spotlights African creativity.

Ruth Tafébé embodies the energy of a new generation of Ivorian artists—those bold enough to mix traditions and innovations to tell universal stories. Don’t miss this key moment in Abidjan’s cultural life—the spots will go fast!

Selected for the 2024 edition of MASA Marché in Abidjan, Nidhal captivated both local and international audiences with outstanding performances that left a lasting impression.

A Growing International Career

His participation in MASA propelled Nidhal’s career onto the international stage. He now tours worldwide and is scheduled to perform at the 22nd edition of the prestigious Sauti Za Busara Festival in Zanzibar, from February 14 to 16, 2025.

MASA: A Launchpad for Artists

Nidhal’s journey illustrates the essential role of MASA in promoting artists. By offering global visibility and opportunities for collaboration with cultural industry professionals, MASA actively contributes to the growth of creative talent and the promotion of African and international cultures.

3 — Mentorship Meeting Between Serge Arthur Dodo and Georges Momboye (MASA Lab)

Following the online introduction of incubated artists and their mentors, an in-person meeting was held between Serge Arthur Dodo and his mentor, Georges Momboye, on Monday, December 23, 2024, at MASA headquarters in the MASA Lab room.

Momboye was fully available for exchange, fostering a connection conducive to stronger collaboration. He also led insightful discussions on the project timeline for Serge Arthur Dodo’s King’art company. Encouraged by his mentor, the incubated artist was able to ask questions and share his ideas freely.

In short, this meeting allowed the dance mentor and his mentee to better understand the expectations and opportunities offered by MASA Lab. It also strengthened a collaborative dynamic essential for the success of the King’art company’s project.