: The December performance utilized the unique "terreyro eletrônico" architecture designed by Lina Bo Bardi, where there is no traditional stage/audience divide. The audience acts as an "atuador" (actuators/active participants) throughout the hours-long rite.
The performance on December 23, 2023 , marked a historic milestone for Teat(r)o Oficina Uzyna Uzona , celebrating the 30th anniversary of a pivotal ritual in the company's history. Often referred to as a "30º rito de ethernidade" (30th rite of eternity), the event served as both a tribute to the late director José Celso Martinez Corrêa (Zé Celso) and a continuation of his legacy. Performance Review Highlights
: The production typically involves a massive "human ship" (tyazo) of over 70 artists , musicians, and technicians. The December 23rd event specifically emphasized the need for "new breath" to keep the company's fire burning after Zé Celso's passing. Historical Significance
: Bacantes originally premiered on August 11, 1995, in Ribeirão Preto, coinciding with the 33rd birthday of Marcelo Drummond , who plays Dionysus.
: The "30 years of Eternal Transmutation" theme refers to the play’s ability to evolve while maintaining its core mission of "anthropophagy"—absorbing foreign influences to create a uniquely Brazilian theatrical language.
: It is considered the "founding macumba" of the contemporary Oficina style, revolutionizing the company’s trajectory toward ritualistic, immersive theater. Where to Watch
: Reviewers often describe this version of Bacantes as a "Carnival Opera" . It is not a standard play but a "tragykomédyOrgya" that fuses Euripides’ original Greek tragedy with Candomblé, rock ’n’ roll, pop music, and Brazilian politics.
If you missed the live event, frequently uploads recordings and live stream rehearsals ("ensaios") of their rites, including full acts of Bacantes . Ensaio de Bacantes AO VIVO -Teatro Oficina
