Ton Ba theatre puppet (guardian/patron of female part of Kamalen Ton)

The theatrical puppet (English: marionette, French: marionnette) is attached to a frame covered with fabrics, under which the puppeteer-animator hides, often holding carved wooden hands. It is part of the Sogo bò theatrical tradition found in the Ségou region, in the south-central Republic of Mali. It represents Ton Ba, the guardian of the women who are part of Kamalen Ton youth association.Kamalen Ton, responsible for preparing Sogo bò theatrical performances, bring together all the young inhabitants of a village or district, women and men. The women are led by the mùso ton-tigi (woman-leader of the ton), who is in a way the spokesperson for women's interests. Her role is mainly to mediate between female and male ton groups. Mùso ton-tigi is chosen according to seniority rules, but leadership qualities, the ability to resolve disputes effectively and the ability to get people to work together are also considered. The burden of preparing performances falls mainly on men; they order puppets, costumes, determine the repertoire, also play all the roles and animate the puppets. The women are responsible for the choir that accompanies the performances; they prepare and clean the village square before the performances and take care of the meals for all the members involved in the theatre activities. The joint work of the women and men associated in Kamalen Ton is not limited to entertainment activities. They also undertake many paid jobs together, and with the money they earn, they provide support to the most vulnerable community members, such as the sick, lonely elderly and widows. They participate in unpaid work for the village community, building roads, bridges, schools, wells, etc.The Ton Ba doll is paired with Ton Fa (MNS/AF/6111). While dancing together, they praise the joint work of men and women and emphasise social harmony.The gift from Oleńka Darkowska-Nidzgorska and Denis Nidzgorski-Gordier.

Ewa Prądzyńska