Complete and Well-Researched Article about the 'Maracatu Baque Mulher' Bloc
1. Complete History of the Bloc
Maracatu Baque Mulher is a group composed exclusively of women who perform the traditional music of Maracatu de Baque Virado, an Afro-Brazilian cultural expression originating from the state of Pernambuco. It was founded in 2008 in the city of Recife, Pernambuco, by the initiative of Mestra Joana D'arc Cavalcante and other female drummers[1][3].
2. Founders and Important Figures
Mestra Joana D'arc Cavalcante is the central figure in the creation and leadership of Maracatu Baque Mulher. She was the first woman to become a Mestra of a Maracatu Nação, leading the Nação Encanto do Pina since 2008[1][2]. Her determination and persistence faced initial resistance from some men, but she managed to create a group that strengthens the protagonism of women in Maracatu.
3. Musical Identity
The characteristic musical style of Maracatu Baque Mulher is Maracatu de Baque Virado, an Afro-Brazilian tradition that reinterprets the coronations of African queens and kings. The music is a combination of rhythms and cultural elements brought by enslaved people from the African continent and is based on rituals and religious ceremonies of Candomblé[4].
4. Traditions and Rituals
- Traditional Costumes: The members of Maracatu Baque Mulher dress in costumes that refer to African and indigenous cultures, with colors and symbolic elements that carry religious and cultural meanings.
- Official Colors: The colors traditionally associated with Maracatu are red, blue, and white, which represent ancestry and cultural resistance[5].
- Loas and Cantofeminino: The musical repertoire includes loas, which are songs of praise and action, which within the context of Maracatu Baque Mulher are named cantofeminino, a poetic way of reviving the sacred feminine[1].
5. Territory and Belonging
- Neighborhood of Origin: The neighborhood of origin of Maracatu Baque Mulher is Recife, specifically in historical areas such as Recife Antigo where their performances take place[1].
- Rehearsal Locations: Rehearsals take place in specific locations in the city of Recife, where the female drummers gather to practice and develop their musical and dance skills.
- Traditional Parade Route: The Maracatu Baque Mulher parade takes place during Carnival in Recife, with a route that includes parks, historic streets, and cultural areas of the city.
6. Evolution and Historical Milestones
- 2008: Founding of Maracatu Baque Mulher, led by Mestra Joana D'arc Cavalcante.
- 2015 and 2016: The group moved to the special group and obtained fourth place in the Special group, respectively[2].
- Participation in Carnival: The group performs at the Recife Carnival and in other cultural events such as Terça Negra, a resistance movement that takes place every first Tuesday of the month, in Pátio São Pedro[1].
7. Cultural Impact
Maracatu Baque Mulher has a significant impact on the cultural scene of Rio de Janeiro, not only for its presentation in carnival events, but also for its struggle in favor of gender equality and recognition of women within the maracatu. Its presence reaffirms the cultural and religious memory of the Maracatus, bringing a female voice that has long been silenced[1][3].
8. Current Structure