The stories of different cultures are being told through masks and puppets as the eighth edition of the festival goes underway in Douala.

The Eighth International Festival of Masks and Puppetry (marionette) that lasts from November 15 to 19, opened in Douala on Tuesday November 15. The world of mask and puppet lovers as it was at the French Cultural Centre last Tuesday, was a rather crazy one; consisting mainly of curious onlookers.

The object of curiosity was nothing more than a stage performance of masked men and women telling the story of entering Cameroon with or without visa and the United Nations position on the matter. As the show continued, the performers offered an unusual spectacle as they portrayed aspects of Cameroon culture with the masks telling the story.

"I find them quite clever and original. It's just beautiful!" exclaimed a young man who preferred to be called ‘mask;’ who came from Congo Brazzaville for the festival. “The organization of the International Meeting of Cameroon Masks and Puppets (RIMAC) is an opportunity for many artistes to exhibit their talents and also make useful contacts," explained Marie-Hélène Kemayou, member of RIMAC. "In addition, we have trained on the making of puppets and masks," continued the artiste, obviously very pleased with the new knowledge.

Cultur’Ac Network President, André Bang, condemned the stigma faced by artistes: "The people around us consider our work as wasted time. They do not always understand that masks and puppets are a good way of telling a story; and you cannot do that without meeting the custodians of tradition. It’s an interesting research. I like it.”

Opening the ceremony, Oumarou Mana Madi, Littoral Culture Delegate, congratulated the initiators of RIMAC, promising that government financial support for such activities will soon be available. He also expressed hope that artistes will be appreciated during the festival through their use of masks and puppets which reflect daily life.

The objective of the festival is to create and promote mask and puppet shows in Cameroon, thereby sensitizing the public that masks are not only frightful objects used by masquerades. Didier Nyoumi, RIMAC Programme Officer, explained that masks and puppets are objects that convey essential messages to the public which are important for young people. It is in this light that the festival will be organized in many schools in Douala and Buea.

The mask and puppet festivals will include a 10-kilometre excursion and a carnival in Buea where competitors will also write and give contemporary descriptions of artifacts, encourage regular innovation and research on art, and hold intercultural exchanges in order to promote creativity, research and tourism.