I was talking to my research advisor this morning about Carnaval-- we're both going to be IN the Sambodromo. On my end, it's a bit of a touristy thing to do, because I haven't actually been practicing with the school; I'm going there basically the week before to get a fitting, and learn some moves. Traditionally (and if I had the motivation), you go to the Escola de Samba every weekend to practice with the bateria, the dancers, etc. You pay a minimal fee, but at the end of it-- you are part of a group and integrate with the school, I think.
But that's not the point of this post. We were talking about how she actually grew up hating Carnaval, which surprised me because it seems like all of Brazil has been waiting for Carnaval since I arrived. Now, it's all anyone can talk about.
She mentioned to me that back in the 60's, when Brazil was ruled by dictatorships, the policitians would kill people during these holidays. Even today, apparentely, laws and programs get passed under the noses of the Brazilians who are too busy having a good time and enjoying the festivals to notice what is going on in the government.
Another perspective that I hadn't heard of or thought of.
No comments:
Post a Comment