The Império de Samba Solidariedade, a samba school from Macapá, Brazil, has announced its theme for the 2026 Carnival parade, titled 'The Drum that Frees - The Story of Forbidden Drums.' This artistic endeavor will delve into the beauty and mystery surrounding the drums, highlighting the impactful sound of batuque and the rich ancestral background associated with this art form. The school is set to captivate audiences with a historical narrative that underscores the origins and cultural significance of the drum in Brazilian culture.

Scheduled to be the first school to perform on Saturday, February 14, starting at 8 PM, the presentation promises to take viewers on a journey through time, illustrating how the drum has evolved and become an essential part of cultural expression. The samba school aims to engage the audience by emphasizing the deep-rooted connections that the drum has with the community and its history of being a symbol of liberation. This performance is part of the broader preparations for Carnival 2026, where G1 is providing daily updates on the parades and samba themes.

Founded in 1983 by samba enthusiasts from the Jesus de Nazaré neighborhood, the Império de Samba Solidariedade has built a reputation for its creative and culturally resonant themes. The school’s mascot, an alligator, embodies its spirit and dedication to the art of samba, and this coming performance sets the stage for what is expected to be an exciting and meaningful display during the highly anticipated Carnival festivities.