Eight samba schools paraded in Santos, Brazil, showcasing various themes including indigenous peoples and cultural heritage despite challenging weather conditions.
On the evening of Saturday, October 7th, eight samba schools took to the Dráuzio da Cruz samba runway in Santos, SP, to thrill the audience with vibrant displays of culture and history. Four schools from the Access Group and four from the Special Group participated, despite rain creating difficulties with puddles on the avenue. The event began at 8 PM, first featuring the Access Group schools, which included Imperatriz Alvinegra, Dragões do Castelo, Unidos da Zona Noroeste, and Sangue Jovem, among others.
The Imperatriz Alvinegra, hailing from São Vicente, was the first to perform, presenting a captivating theme that explored 'No puro sangue do maior,' referencing a rich narrative woven into Brazilian culture. As the parades progressed, other schools followed suit, each bringing unique reflections on significant social issues, including the preservation of marine environments, the struggles of indigenous communities, and various cultural aspects related to life in Brazil's urban peripheries.
This year’s carnival in Santos not only emphasized entertainment but also served as a platform to raise awareness about pressing social issues, through the lens of samba culture. The commitment of the samba schools to intertwine performance with meaningful messages reflects a broader trend in Brazilian carnival celebrations, where artistry meets activism, encouraging the audience to engage with and reflect on the narratives being portrayed.
