Marietou Thiam's slender figure twists and twirls, suspended in mid-air by a hoop, under the spellbound gaze of onlookers at Dakar's first-ever circus festival.
Thiam is the artistic director -- and one of only two women members -- of Sencirk, Senegal's premier circus troupe, which organised the festival.
The 29-year-old first moved to Dakar for her studies, but left that life behind to join the circus.
She is carried by the magic of the moment -- and the importance of Sencirk's mission.
That's because the circus company also functions as a place of learning for orphans and children from low-income families.
It offers them a chance to learn new skills, find a sense of community -- and have some fun.
One of the teachers, Malick, says Sencirk has changed his life.
Now, through teaching, he can afford to rent an apartment in Ngor, a village-like neighbourhood in Dakar.
On a clear May afternoon on Ngor beach, Malick leaps into the air and looks as though he will fly away, head over heels, his feet appearing to touch a bright, white sun.
He is both an artist and a teacher, sharing his passion with children in need -- children who could one day take up Malick and Marietou's mantle.
Soon it will be their turn to ascend the pyramid and reach for the stars.
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© Agence France-Presse
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