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Who is organising the Event?
We are Maracatu Ilha Brilhante. (Maracatu of the Shining Island). Founded in 2010, we are an Afro-Brazilian percussion group, featuring some of Ireland’s finest drumming talent. Hailing from all corners of the island, our members are drawn from some of the longest established Brazilian music groups from throughout Ireland.
Our collective explores some of the oldest interpretations of maracatu music with other folkloric and sacred rhythms, as well as more contemporary Brazilian music forms. The group has generated interest nationally among Brazilian music enthusiasts and gained the respect of members of the Brazilian maracatu tradition.
What is The Encontro?
The 6th European Maracatu Encontro is a meeting of Maracatu performance groups from around Europe in one of the largest celebrations of Afro-Brazilian culture outside Brazil.
Taking place on the 25th – 27th July 2014 in Limerick City, the event is an exciting opportunity to immerse audiences in the Brazilian cultural spectacle of maracatu.
Originating in Brazil’s North eastern state of Pernambuco, maracatu combines art forms of music, dance and pageantry to create a unique and vibrant energy and performance.
Previous Encontros were hosted, with great success, at Notting Hill Carnival, London (2005 & 2006); Nantes, France (2008); Clichy-Paris, France (2010) and most recently in Cologne, Germany ( 2012).
This year’s Encontro will be led by renowned maracatu master and cultural leader Mestre Toninho (Musical Director - Maracatu Encanto de Alegria) assisted by Jorge Martins (Maracatu Estrela Brilhante) and Letho Nascimento (Maracatu Nacao Oju Oba) with Dadinha Gomes (Dance Director - Maracatu Naçao Pernambuco).
The weekend will offer master classes for Maracatu percussionists and dancers from all over Europe and Brazil. A Saturday night showcase will feature some of the finest musical performers of Brazilian culture from throughout Europe.
The Encontro will culminate in a large-scale procession through the streets of Limerick to a grand finale at ‘The People’s Park’. The Encontro promises to bring some of most spirited and energetic elements of Afro- Brazilian culture to new audiences.
Why should I help fund the Encontro?
Following our performances in Paris in 2010 & Cologne 2012,our group made a successful bid to host this Encontro.
Run on a voluntary, non-profit basis, this event will engage the public in a large-scale, on-street spectacle, involving approximately 350 drummers, dancers and performers. This is a unique opportunity to introduce maracatu to a wider audience and celebrate Afro-Brazilian traditional culture on the streets of Limerick.
Our team have the experience in successfully producing and project managing a variety of large scale arts events, conferences and workshops all over the island of Ireland. But now we need your help make this event happen
A successful Fund it campaign will help us with the production costs of our ‘Grand Parade’ on the streets of Limerick City. This promises to fill the streets with thunderous rhythms, beautiful songs and spectacular, costumed dancers.
Please give us your support and help us create our unique event this summer.
Find out more about the event at www.maracatuireland.com
