Dance Style: Samba

Monobloco is a “bloco,” or street band, that parades during carnival in Rio de Janeiro and is also a professional touring band. The group became popular by creating powerful cover versions of Brazilian hits, stepping outside of the samba genre. Classics by Tim Maia, Jorge Benjor, Alceu Valença, and many others were transformed into samba anthems and attracted fans from a whole new generation. During the world-famous Rio de Janeiro carnival, Monobloco has its own parade, which today attracts over half a million people to the streets to dance and sing. The group’s popularity soon led to the creation of a professional touring band, which has performed extensively around Brazil and internationally, including at the London Olympics in 2012. The group has also released several live and studio albums including the 2010 release called “10,” which was nominated for a Latin GRAMMY for Best Samba/Pagode album.

EducArte last presented Monobloco at Glen Echo Park in June 2022. It was an exciting live performance! Experience the electric exuberance of Rio de Janeiro’s street carnival.

About the venue
The Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park is a beautifully restored 1933 Mediterranean-style Art Deco building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is considered one of the best dance halls on the east coast. Learn more about the space in this video. Note that the ballroom is not heated or air-conditioned. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, but they may not be consumed on the dance floor. Parking is free, carpooling is encouraged.

EducArte is thrilled to welcome back the joyous energy of Rio de Janeiro carnival to the DC area!