Bale de Rua

Source: The List (Issue 608)
Date: 31 July 2008 (updated 20 Aug 2008)
Written by: Kelly Apter

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This article is from 2008.

Brazilian rhythm of life

Being short of cash can lead to some surprisingly good results. Back in 2004, when Brazilian company, Bale de Rua found themselves without a costume budget, they improvised with paint instead. Covering their skin with bright colours, the effect was stunning – which is why they’ve incorporated sections of that show into their self-titled Fringe debut.

As artistic director, Fernando Narduchi explains, however, the paint also has another meaning. ‘Brazilian people are very colourful,’ he says. ‘Their houses are many different colours, we have green forests, blue skies – and the people are very mixed, too. So in the show you can see the body painting as the mix of colours and races that we have in Brazil.’

Blending hip hop, salsa, capoeira and traditional dances, the company aims to highlight the good and bad times of Brazil’s history. ‘Our show is a celebration of life, joy and love,’ says Narduchi. ‘And a celebration of our culture – we want to show the power of the Brazilian people.’

Assembly Halls, 623 3030, 2–25 Aug (not 4, 11), 6.50pm, £15–£17 (£14–£15). Previews 31 Jul & 1 Aug, £10.

This article is from 2008.

More: Dance, Bale de Rua, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh Festivals, Fringe