Samba dancers approve improvements to the Sambadrome during the first weekend of technical rehearsals

After a two-year silence imposed by the pandemic, the Sambadrome once again welcomed samba dancers and carnival enthusiasts this weekend. Six samba schools participated in the technical rehearsals at Sapucaí, in the space that recently underwent revitalization. The improvements were appreciated by samba dancers such as Tia Surica, a member of Velha Guarda da Portela, the last school to hold the rehearsal parade on Sunday (13/03).

– I’m thrilled to be stepping foot in Sapucaí again. This rehearsal is the beginning of a realization for me. And the conclusion of the dream will be in the official parade. I saw that they did some work here. The samba dancers deserve it, because those who don’t like samba already know, right? They’re not good people – said Surica.

 

The improvements made by the City Hall, an investment of R$26 million, include resurfacing and special painting, a new rainwater drainage system to prevent puddles from hindering the progress of the schools, adaptation of all electrical systems and a new fire prevention system – meeting the requirements of the Fire Department -, renovation of the area around Avenida Marquês de Sapucaí and new stage lighting, among other interventions that will be noticed by the public and members of the groups that will officially parade in April.

Wanderley Monteiro, one of the composers of Portela's samba this year, praised the initiative for investing in improvements:

– We all deserve it. Rio deserves it. This avenue brings a lot of tourists to the city. Construction work here does not represent an expense. It is an investment – ​​highlighted Wanderley, who paraded alongside the sound car.

The public was also able to enjoy the improvements to the space. Businessman Cristiano Oliveira da Silva, a resident of Penha, participated in the rehearsal of his Imperatriz Leopoldinense and, after the parade, went to the stands to watch Portela.

– I’ve paraded five times and I know this place like the back of my hand. The Sambadrome is more beautiful and comfortable – he said.

In addition to Imperatriz and Portela, the public also applauded São Clemente on Sunday. On Saturday (12/03), the rehearsal season had already been opened by three schools from the Série Ouro (former Grupo de Acesso): Em Cima da Hora, Império Serrano and Lins Imperial.

Technical rehearsals will continue on weekends, with free public access to the stands. Proof of up-to-date vaccination is mandatory.

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March 14th, 2022

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