I’ve seen Mardi Gras in New Orleans and the Tournament of Rose pageant in Pasadena, and they were awesome events, but I’ve never been witness to as thrilling and elaberate, as colorful and entertaining a display as Carnivale in Rio!!
Imagine the most gigantic street fare, unbelievable costumes, towering floats, thousands of dancers, musicians and drummers, young and old…parading for hours past the thousands of spectators seated (and standing) in the unique Sambadrome.
Unique in all the world, this fantasy ushers in the season of Lent with all the color, exuberance, glitz and passion of a people proud of their heritage and delighted to share it.
The concept traces its origin back to the 1600’s, when the upper classes held parties and balls before the austerity of the Lenten season began. The common folk, the workers and servants, began to emulate their “betters” From the slums of “little Africa” there evolved a corps of religious “houses” and they began to compete with each other in small ways, with songs and parades. An unique dance style evolved in the late 1900’s evolved, the Samba, and this was incorporated in the competitions. The craze became an institution this annual event grew and grew until
Preparation begins for next year’s extravaganza soon after the feathers and sequins are swept from the streets of this year’s event! The various “Samba Schools” of the city begin the arduous planning: first, the theme is chosen…honor a famous Brazilian or historic event, or perhaps high-light a region or group of people. Song writing contests are held within the School and the winner’s song is rehearsed, recorded and sold in record shops by Christmas. Costumers design and then create thousands of amazing garments that out glamorize anything Hollywood or Bollywood could dream up. Yes, thousands, because each Samba School consist of literally thousands of participants, each with his or her role to play…hundreds of dancers, marchers, drummers, vocalists.
Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2012 will be held February 17th through 21st. If you’re interested in attending, there is a 6 day Rio de Janeiro Carnival Experience package available priced from $2,769 pp, based on double occupancy.
