Decades before her prolific singing career, Haitian artist Toto Bissainthe was making history as a theatre trailblazer in Paris.
Pursuing Her Passion
In 1956, Bissainthe co-founded the theatre troupe Les Griots, becoming the first company in Paris comprised entirely of Black actors. Her daughter Milena Sandler explained, “There were things she wanted to say that she couldn’t in theatre, and she turned to song.”
Still, the stage remained Bissainthe’s first love. Les Griots provided a platform for Black artists and stories in a predominantly white theatre scene.
An Artistic Haven
Fellow member Sarah Maldoror, who later became a distinguished filmmaker, described Les Griots as a critical haven for Black creativity and expression in Paris at the time.
Over 60 years later, Les Griots’ pioneering status continues to inspire new generations of Black French actors and theatre companies pushing for greater representation.
An Enduring Legacy
Though Bissainthe tragically passed away in 1994, events like a recent musical tribute in Brooklyn have celebrated her lasting cultural influence.
Singer Pauline Jean summarized it best – “Toto is the Nina Simone of Haiti.” Through theatre and later music, Bissainthe gave voice to the oppressed and brought authentic Black stories to stages worldwide.
