Salim Djaferi's 'Bâtir' at Avignon Festival constructs and deconstructs French housing project history

At the Avignon Festival, Salim Djaferi's new production, "Bâtir," offers a poignant exploration of the history of French housing projects, often referred to as 'cités.' Through a carefully curated blend of archival materials and an innovative stage design, the play delves into the discriminatory past of these communities, tracing their evolution from the 1950s to the present.

Djaferi, an actor and creator who himself hails from Sevran, a prominent housing project, imbues the performance with a deep sense of personal connection. His gentle yet deliberate approach, combining spoken word with choreographed movement, brings to life the often-overlooked narratives of discrimination and resilience that have shaped these neighborhoods.

The play does not shy away from the harsh realities faced by residents of these 'cités.' It meticulously reconstructs a discriminatory past, highlighting the systemic challenges and societal biases that have impacted generations. Yet, Djaferi's portrayal is marked by a certain tenderness, suggesting a nuanced understanding of the communities he depicts.

"Bâtir" serves as a powerful act of remembrance and reflection, offering audiences a chance to engage with a critical aspect of French social history. Djaferi's work invites contemplation on how these spaces were constructed, both physically and socially, and the enduring legacy of their discriminatory foundations.