Back2Black Paris Festival
BACK2BLACK PARIS 2026
“Back2Black is a movement that pays tribute to and expresses gratitude toward the African continent.”
A Hit in Paris, the Festival Establishes Itself as an Afro-Brazilian Manifesto. Watch the video:
THE FESTIVAL
The first edition of the Back2Black Festival in Paris showcased the power and beauty of Afro-Brazilian cultural expressions. Music, art, film, and cuisine captivated the audience at the iconic Théâtre du Châtelet, establishing the event as a true Afro-Brazilian Manifesto in the French capital. Singer-songwriter Gilberto Gil moved the audience to moments of emotion and ecstasy alongside his children and grandchildren.
Blick Bassy from Cameroon and Agnes Nunes from Brazil won over the audience in a beautiful and intense performance. The festival took over every space in the theater and also featured original performances by lyric soprano Lorena Pires, Portuguese-Guinean DJ Umafricana, and the Brazilian group Sambaiana.
INSPIRATION AND REVERENCE
More than just a celebration, the Back2Black Festival is a source of inspiration, reverence, and legacy. The event featured works by visual artist Carybé inspired by Afro-Brazilian spirituality and screened the documentary “3 Obás de Xangô”, about the art and friendship of Carybé, Dorival Caymmi, and Jorge Amado. With its debut in Paris, Back2Black offered the public the opportunity to discover deeper insights into Brazilian sociocultural identity.
“Africa is the beating heart of Brazilian culture’s creative energy. This festival is an expression of reverence and gratitude toward the African continent,” said Connie Lopes, director of Back2Black, which is celebrating its 17th anniversary this year.
TOGETHER FOR CULTURE
We thank our sponsor, Petrobras, for its energy and commitment to promoting and disseminating Brazilian art.
We thank our co-sponsors, Embratur and Visit Brasil, for their cooperation in positioning Brazil as a destination where culture and heritage go hand in hand.
We thank the Ministry of Culture for making this event possible through the Federal Culture Incentive Law.
To the Théâtre du Châtelet for its partnership and collaboration in organizing the event.
And a huge thank you to the audience who attended, to the artists who participated with their unique talents, and to the Brazilian and French production teams responsible for making the festival happen. We hope to return soon!
Stay tuned for news about the Back2Black Festival and its next edition in Brazil, in the second half of 2026.
Merci, Paris! See you soon, Brazil!
