Warriors of Brazil

Editorial

The dangerous favelas or shantytowns of Brazil have bred some breathtaking artists in recent years. Who can forget the passions displayed on screen in the 2002 film City of God or the brilliant electro-punk rhythms of Cansei de Ser Sexy aka CSS? The latest cab off the South American rank is Warriors of Brazil, a spectacular stage show fusing the inspirational martial art of Capoeira with the spirit and sensuality of Carnival.

Capoeira reputedly originated in the 17th century among African slaves transported to Brazil, as a fighting style designed for rebellion but disguised as dance so as not to alert their masters. It's a demanding but beautiful sport, and is admirably performed by the super-fit young men of Warriors of Brazil, each of whom has escaped from a world of gang warfare in the ghettos of Salvador de Bahia, the former epicentre of the African slave trade, thanks to a social development program designed to reduce crime through art. Collectively, they are masters of Capoeira, and are captivating audiences around the world while simultaneously spreading a message of hope for Brazilian youth.

Joining them on stage are the singers, dancers and percussionists of Rhythm Carnival, hailing from the favela of Candeal, which famously saved its young people from a life of violence by encouraging them to trade their weapons for musical instruments.

Transforming the pain of their past into a fierce and wild beauty, the muscular energy and precision of this vivid and athletic show will have you gaping in awe as the performers back flip, kick, fly and somersault across the stage, accompanied by the infectious tunes of Rhythm Carnival. A spectacular evening of entertainment that will set your pulse racing.

Richard Watts, Citysearch