Disappointing parade, gripping atomic test exhibition: Fribourg's Belluard festival defies expectations

The 43rd contemporary Belluard festival in Fribourg has kicked off with a blend of international concerns and human experiences, though its opening events have drawn mixed reactions. The festival's director, Elisa Liepsch, envisioned the opening parade, led by artist Tyna Might (Martin Schick), as a vibrant display of the Schönberg district's multicultural residents, a community Schick had immersed himself in for months.

However, the execution of the parade fell short of this vision. Apart from the DJ and her team on a small float, the procession that moved through the diverse neighborhood primarily consisted of festival attendees, Swiss cultural figures, and drag queens, with little apparent connection to the Schönberg's migrant population. This disconnect led to a sense of "mortal boredom" during the lengthy procession, according to the report.

Fortunately, the evening gained momentum with a performance by Jamila Baio, a dancer of Moroccan origin. Her piece, "Zmagria," offered a powerful exploration of identity, providing a more engaging experience for the audience. The festival also features an exhibition that delves into the French atomic tests conducted in the Sahara, promising a deeper engagement with historical and human issues.

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A-t-on mal compris?