Bonecos de Olinda

Bonecos de Olinda are giant hollow figures made of fabric, aluminum, paper, wood and fiberglass. They originated in medieval Europe and were used in processions in the form of Catholic saints. During colonial Brazil, they found their way into the country eventually becoming popularized as a staple of the carnival of Olinda, in the North East state of Pernambuco. During carnival, these picturesque dolls often assume the identity of well known historical figures and celebrities.
In Pernambuco, the music played and danced during carnival derives from rhythms such as frevo and maracatu; and are performed by a parade of street musicians alongside dancers and party goers in an endless procession of euphoric madness. This piece was inspired by the carnival of Olinda, its rhythms and sounds; the relentless energy of that music which often puts people in a trance-like state when time seems to sit still.