Abidjan is ablaze: MASA 2026, a showcase for African performing arts

Du 11 in April 18 2026, Abidjan will vibrate to the rhythm of Abidjan Performing Arts Market (MASA)For eight days, the Ivorian economic capital will become the epicenter of African performing arts, bringing together artists, programmers, producers and enthusiasts from across the continent and the diaspora.

MASA 2026 is shaping up to be an ambitious edition, confirming Abidjan's strategic role as a major cultural hub in Africa.

Useful information

Dates: 11 in April 18 2026
Main places:

• Bernard Binlin Dadié Palace of Culture (Treichville)

• French Institute of Abidjan

• Partner cultural spaces

• Open stages in several municipalities

Accreditations:
Entertainment professionals, media and programmers can submit their applications via the official MASA platform.

Program :
Live concerts, theatre, dance, comedy, street arts, professional showcases, conferences and B2B meetings.

MASA, an unmissable continental event

Created in 1993, MASA is today one of the largest cultural markets in Africa.
His mission :

• Promoting African artists on the international stage

• Promote professional exchanges

• Structuring the cultural and creative industries

• To stimulate the dissemination of African works

In 2026, the event will place particular emphasis on innovation, the circulation of African artists and the professionalization of performing arts professions.

A rich and diverse program

MASA 2026 will host:

• Live music: Afrobeat, zouglou, African jazz, revisited traditional music

• Contemporary dance and urban choreography

• Theatre and stage performances

• Stand-up and spoken word

• Hybrid arts and experimental creations

Artists from West Africa, Central Africa, Southern Africa and the diaspora will be selected to perform before an international audience.

A strategic market for professionals

Beyond the spectacle, MASA remains a space for cultural business:

• B2B meetings between artists and programmers

• Conferences on monetization and streaming

• Panels on African artistic mobility

• Masterclasses and professional workshops

In a context where African cultural industries are taking an increasing place in the continental economy, MASA plays a central role in their structuring.

Abidjan, a vibrant cultural capital

For eight days, the entire city comes alive. Neighborhoods vibrate, stages multiply, and exchanges take place. MASA transcends its purely institutional framework to become a true popular festival.

Abidjan thus confirms its positioning as an African cultural hub, alongside Dakar, Lagos and Johannesburg.

A springboard for the new generation

MASA 2026 will offer exceptional visibility to young African talents.
Many artists who are now well-known saw their careers take off after attending MASA.

This edition therefore promises to be both a celebration and a springboard to the international stage.

From April 11 to 18, 2026, MASA will make Abidjan the capital of African performing arts.
Between creativity, professional meetings and continental ambition, the event stands out as a major showcase of African artistic genius.