Camarote Portela’s scenography for Carnaval 2026 follows the Príncipe Custódio storyline, with Black-led curation, installations, and living memory inside Sapucaí.
One of the most in-demand spaces in Sapucaí’s Sector 3, Camarote Portela is again betting on an experience that goes past “nice décor.” In 2026, circulation areas and gathering points become part of the narrative, aligned with the samba school theme “O Mistério do Príncipe do Bará – A oração do Negrinho e a ressurreição de sua coroa sob o céu aberto do Rio Grande.”
Scenography built from the storyline
Created by Mango, the project is presented as a careful curatorial dive into the symbolic, spiritual, and political legacy of Príncipe Custódio. The concept highlights spiritual presence, political articulation, and cultural impact linked to the figure, connecting religiosity, resistance, and Black identity in Brazil’s southern state of Rio Grande do Sul.
The team frames the work as a direct response to historical erasure around African heritage in Rio Grande do Sul. That is why Jonathan Raymundo (professor, writer, and consultant) guides the artistic unfoldings and the ways Black culture is expressed throughout the space.
“We joined forces to create room, listening, and protagonism, so Black artists and thinkers can speak with authority, sensitivity, and truth about the storyline.”
Creative director Julia Paula says taking entrusted themes seriously turns scenography into an immersive, responsible, and necessary experience. The material also stresses that Black aesthetics appear as structure and living presence—avoiding clichés, exotic framing, or folklorization.
Art, shells, and a Brazil–Africa bridge
As an opening gesture, photographer and art director Salemm (Fotogracria) created a photo essay inspired by the storyline. Her gallery—titled by the artist—will occupy one of the venue’s main buffet areas, using imagery as memory, presence, and resistance.
On the way up to the second floor, the design highlights two monumental cowrie-shell sculptures by visual artist Julia Cavalcanti Di Siqueira. The pieces are described as “two lungs,” symbolizing a link between Brazil and Africa and evoking origin and crossing within the project’s concept.
An iconic feature from 2025—the themed restroom that paid tribute to Milton Nascimento—will be recreated. According to the release, the goal is to keep that legacy alive in future editions.
“More than occupying a space, this Camarote chooses to reposition narratives, return centrality, and honor stories that have always been here.”
Architect and scenographer Bárbara Boy describes the concept as building bridges between memory, art, and the contemporary moment—without trapping the past.
Show lineup for Carnaval 2026
The program starts on February 13 with “Sexta-Abre Alas,” featuring Marvvila. On February 14, Délcio Luiz and Velha Guarda da Portela perform, inviting Teresa Cristina. On February 15, Mauro Diniz is confirmed.
On February 16, Xande de Pilares takes the stage. On February 17, Diogo Nogueira performs. For the Champions’ Saturday on February 21, Revelação closes the schedule.
Tickets include access in Sector 3 (superfrisa and an upper lounge), open bar and an all-night buffet, plus round-trip transportation from the meeting point at JW Marriott Copacabana, where guests can pick up tickets and customize the abadá.
Info and tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com.br/event/rio-carnaval-2026-camaroteportela
Public access: Technical Rehearsals
For the first time, Camarote Portela says it will offer programming during Grupo Especial Technical Rehearsals with public access. The idea is to watch schools’ preparations from a prime viewpoint before the official parade nights.
Tickets for February 6, 7, and 8 are already on sale, including open bar, a DJ set, and a samba circle after the rehearsal each day.
Info and tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com.br/event/rio-carnaval-2026-ensaios-tecnicos-camarote-portela
Service
Camarote Portela
Dates: February 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 21, 2026
Venue: Sambódromo da Marquês de Sapucaí
Address: R. Marquês de Sapucaí – Santo Cristo, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20220-007
Age rating: children under 5 admitted only with a ticket, accompanied by a legal guardian and with authorization from the Juvenile Court of the Capital District
Online service fee: none
Ticket limit per CPF: 4 (per day)
Online payments: 2 installments interest-free; 3 up to 10 with interest; Pix
Policy: cancellation, chargeback, or refunds are not allowed on the event day
Photo: Press materials
