Bloco das Carmelitas: Irreverence and Joy in Rio's Carnival
About the Bloco
The Bloco das Carmelitas is a traditional carnival bloco from Rio de Janeiro, known for its irreverence, good humor, and iconic "nun" costumes. Founded in 1990, the bloco pays homage to socialite Laurinda Santos Lobo and the legend of the nun who allegedly jumped the wall of the Carmelitas Convent to participate in the Carnival festivities.
History and Tradition
The Bloco das Carmelitas was founded by a group of friends who played soccer and wanted to honor Laurinda Santos Lobo, a prominent figure in the Santa Teresa neighborhood. The name and theme of the bloco were inspired by the Carmelitas Convent, a historical landmark of the neighborhood. The popular anecdote about the nun who escaped the convent to enjoy Carnival also contributed to the bloco's identity.
Musical Identity
Traditional samba and marchinhas are the basis of the Bloco das Carmelitas' repertoire, which also incorporates songs related to current events in Brazil. The bloco has a bateria (drum section) with about 150 to 200 members, who animate the revelers with their contagious rhythm.
Parades and Performances
The Bloco das Carmelitas holds two main parades during Carnival: one on the Friday before Carnival, which represents the nun's escape from the convent, and another on Carnival Tuesday, which symbolizes her return to the convent. The parades take place on the streets of Santa Teresa, starting at the corner of Ladeira de Santa Teresa and Rua Dias de Barros, and also at Largo do Curvelo.
Cultural Impact
The Bloco das Carmelitas stands out in Rio's carnival for its irreverent and humorous approach. The bloco has contributed to the diversity and joy of Carnival, becoming an icon of the Brazilian popular festival.
Social Media
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