Camila Rocha, a former queen of the Barretos Festival, recently stepped onto the stage of the São Paulo Carnival as a dancer for the famous Vai-Vai samba school, marking a significant milestone in her career. At 36 years old, Camila expressed her overwhelming joy and emotional response as she took part in the festivities at Anhembi, feeling a mix of excitement and nostalgia for the opportunity to fulfill her long-held dream. She described her experience as nothing short of incredible and transformative, as she navigated the vibrant world of samba dancing for the first time.

The Vai-Vai samba school, one of the most prestigious and recognized groups in the São Paulo Carnival, performed on the first night of the parades with a theme dedicated to the history of Brazilian cinema, specifically paying tribute to the Vera Cruz studios. As one of the six schools to enter the Anhembi stadium, Vai-Vai presented an elaborate spectacle filled with beautiful costumes and intricate choreography, in an effort to capture the essence of their artistic narrative. Camila’s inclusion in this performance highlights not only her personal achievement but also underscores the significance of the cultural celebration that Carnivals represent in Brazil.

As Camila prepares to embrace her new role and the responsibilities that come with it, she reflected on the path that has led her here from her days as a queen in Barretos to the bustling stage of São Paulo. The anticipation before her performance heightened her feelings of excitement but also measured her determination to honor the traditions of samba. Camila’s journey illustrates the deep connections and communal spirit inherent in Brazilian Carnival culture, emphasizing the importance of moments like these in celebrating identity and heritage amidst the energetic backdrop of the festivities.