La Complet'Mandingue

N.O.M.A.D
(New Alternative and Unbridled Musical Organisation)

They appear as if from another world. Carried by the rhythm, their bodies dance, their hands tell stories and their voices invite the audience to join them.

A musical tribe on the move: free, vibrant and unpredictable. In the streets, public squares, markets and festivals, they lead the way, set the pace and bring their emblematic instrument to life: the balafon, portable and sculpted from wood and breath.

Drawing on ancient traditions, they propel their music in a resolutely contemporary direction, where cultures, continents and imaginations meet.

Every appearance transforms the space around them. The audience is swept along, bodies begin to move and boundaries disappear. The energy gradually spreads, the pulse intensifies and celebration takes over.

Everything becomes movement, sharing and festivity: a collective crescendo in which music brings people together, electrifies the crowd and carries everyone into a joyful and liberating trance.

N.O.M.A.D promises music without borders and boundless joy.

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For over twenty years, La Complet’Mandingue has developed a unique musical world based on original compositions, lively staging and a direct, generous and festive relationship with the audience.

Equipped with their remarkable portable balafons, these six musicians have created a musical language of their own, blending Manding traditions, urban grooves and electronic rhythms.

Over the years, La Complet’Mandingue has performed at festivals around the world and established itself as a leading name in travelling musical performance.

The group has appeared at major international events including Sziget Festival in Hungary, the Montreal International Jazz Festival in Canada, Boomtown Fair in the United Kingdom, the Seoul Drum Festival in South Korea and the Comfama San Ignacio Theatre and Music Festival in Medellín, Colombia.

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N.O.M.A.D creation

Compositions and staging: Stéphane Pardon
Costume design and construction: Maggy Dupa
Visual design, textile composition and finishing: François Domergue
Art direction and visual design: Stéphane Pardon
Original photography: Jean-Marie Hosatte
Original graphic design: Izu Troin & Foliascope
Supported by: Théâtre de l’Unité (Audincourt), La Drôme, Audiens (Professional Development Fund)

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