Behind the carnival: schools keep rehearsals and allegories secret to preserve surprise in Sapucaí
Samba schools in Rio are intensifying their preparations for the Carnival while taking measures to maintain secrecy around their performances.
In the days leading up to the much-anticipated parades of the Special Group, samba schools in Rio de Janeiro are ramping up their preparations at the City of Samba and Marquês de Sapucaí. To maintain the visual impact of their performances, teams are working through the night and implementing strategies to keep costumes, allegories, and choreography under wraps. This ensures that spectators will be surprised by the elaborate displays when they are unveiled during the parades.
At the City of Samba, the Grande Rio team is making final adjustments to their front commission prior to a technical rehearsal at Marquês de Sapucaí. Scenic elements and costumes are being safeguarded with tarps and plastic for transport to the Sambódromo, involving a coordinated effort from workers responsible for packaging and moving these pieces without damage. The logistics of transporting the float components are meticulously planned to avoid traffic and minimize the risk of early exposure, highlighting the schools' dedication to maintaining the allure of their creations.
The transportation of the float cars occurs in the early morning hours to prevent congestion and safeguard their designs. This maneuver is supported by heavy equipment operators and external guides who assist with directional signals, given that visibility for the driver is severely limited inside the structures. The blend of secrecy and logistical coordination reflects the intense effort that samba schools invest in delivering stunning performances during Carnival, a cultural celebration that attracts spectators from around the world and showcases the creativity and passion of Brazil's samba scene.