The samba school Beija-Flor spent over R$ 1 million on a hydraulic and electronic structure that transforms into the face of Iemanjá during their parade, showcasing intricate engineering and homage to the sea goddess.
Beija-Flor de Nilópolis, a prominent samba school in Brazil, made headlines during the Carnival parade by unveiling a stunning and elaborate structure that cost more than R$ 1 million. This structure, which was built on the chassis of a school bus, incorporated hydraulic and electronic technologies to transform into a boat representing Iemanjá, the Afro-Brazilian goddess of the sea. Jorge Teixeira, the choreographer behind the design, explained that the intention was to honor Iemanjá while depicting the traditional final moments of the bembé, a ceremonial offering by fishermen.
The engineering feat took three months to complete and involved expert consultations to ensure the one-ton structure would be adequately supported on its base. During the parade at the famous Marquês de Sapucaí, audiences were treated to mesmerizing transformations of the structure, which occurred four times, captivating spectators, and bringing attention to both the creativity and cultural significance behind the performance.
This display not only highlights the investment made by Beija-Flor in its Carnival presentation but also underscores the importance of Iemanjá in Afro-Brazilian culture and the celebration of traditions within Brazil's festive atmosphere. Such elaborate depictions serve to connect the audience with cultural roots while showcasing advancements in parade technologies that enhance the visual and thematic storytelling of Carnival.
