I know it’s only the second week of classes, but I’m in dire need of a vacation. How about I go to the tropics of Brazil? Yes, that’s exactly where I have to go: TQ Productions is supplying my ticket, and the energetic dance crew of Rio 40° is going to take me there – without the jet lag, too!

Choreographed by Talita Fontainha, a Rio native and the funniest emcee (as well as an incredibly talented dancer), Rio 40° perfects what humans have been doing for centuries – telling stories through dance. Performing an incredible range of styles, including hip-hop, samba, ballet, contemporary dance, acrobatics and… miming? It is loud, colourful, and lively, with upbeat choreographies, funny scenarios, and glittery outfits. So, definitely bring some earplugs if you’re not a fan of loud music and be aware of the flashing lights too. 

The show opens with footage of the charming city of Rio de Janeiro splashed across the screens. We are introduced to the main characters – an Aussie bloke dressed like a typical tourist with his Aloha shirt, a camera hung around his neck, and a map in his pocket, and a local man with flaming red hair who will be responsible for the bizarre adventures we are about to witness.

Our first stop is none other than the football stadium. The lights were dim, flashes of red and white danced around the room as scenes from a football match came to view. Dancers clad in jerseys and football shoes put on an upbeat hip-hop number, painting a picture of what typically goes down at this beautiful game. They shout at each other and the referee, kick inflatable footballs and balloons to the audience, and chant as they win the match. It truly felt like I had been transported to the 2014 FIFA World Cup. 

While we are taken along these dazzling adventures from beaches, to nightclubs, and to the Carnaval, Rio 40° also gives us an insight into the realities of living in the city: the struggles that Brazilians face every day in their fight against corruption, police brutality, and the war on drugs. There are confronting segments of the show. We stand (sit) witness as a group of gang members battle against an alliance between the police and drug lords and their hustle of framing tourists. All this occurs while real footage of riots and corruption in Brazil plays upon the screens.

Violence ensues and statements detailing the history of police brutality in Brazil looms over her body. The crowd falls silent, and a pain  forms on the backs of my eyes as I force myself not to cry. That’s when I knew Rio 40° is going to be the best Fringe show I’ve ever seen – it is thought-provoking and bold.

Do yourself a favour and watch it. There wasn’t a single moment where the audience felt dead or ready to fall asleep (two things Talita warned us not to do, actually). In fact, we were so hyped up by their energy and performance that we gave them a standing ovation. Both enlightening and entertaining, you don’t want to miss it. 

Rio 40° must close on the 17th of March, so grab a ticket before it’s too late!