Noted thespian Robert Liensol, whose remarkable life and body of work continue to captivate audiences to this day, was born on September 9, 1922, in the picturesque town of Saint-Barthélémy, nestled within the charming French West Indies.
Throughout his illustrious career, which spanned an impressive number of decades, Liensol left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, with standout performances in a diverse range of films, including the critically acclaimed historical epic L'exil du roi Behanzin (1994),the action-packed thriller Target (1985),and the poignant drama Coco-the-Flower, Candidate (1979).
Liensol's enduring impact on the entertainment industry transcends his impressive acting abilities, as he courageously championed the cause of diversity and representation in France, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence future generations. It was in 1954 that he embarked on a groundbreaking endeavor, establishing the "Compagnie des Griots", a pioneering organization that would become the first French company of black actors, a trailblazing initiative that he successfully managed and nurtured until 1972.
Under the esteemed guidance of the visionary leader, the Griots troupe experienced a remarkable surge in success, boasting a diverse ensemble of gifted performers, including the illustrious Darling Légitimus, Théo Légitimus, Jenny Alpha, Bachir Touré, Toto Bissainthe, Thimotée Bassari, Lydia Ewandé, and the accomplished Danièle Van Berkeycke.
In the year 1972, a significant event transpired as Liensol brought together the prestigious Griots company with the esteemed "Shango" theatre troupe, founded by the illustrious Med Hondo, thereby giving rise to the highly acclaimed "Griots-Shango" ensemble.
This pivotal fusion had a profound impact on Liensol's career, solidifying his status as a trailblazer within the French theatre scene, and thereby paving the way for a multitude of future generations of performers and creators to follow in his footsteps, building upon the foundation he so courageously laid.
It is with profound sorrow that we recall the untimely demise of Robert Liensol, which occurred on February 13, 2011, in the City of Light, Paris, France.
