Branco Ancestral premieres dystopian satire in São Paulo

Branco Ancestral debuts at Teatro Estúdio with a dystopian satire on power, privilege, and society’s future.

Actor and playwright Jessé Scarpellini brings his new solo performance, “Branco Ancestral”, to the stage on December 8 at 8 p.m. at Teatro Estúdio in São Paulo. Mixing satire, science fiction, and social critique, the show humorously transforms the end of the world into a mirror of the present. It is directed by Bruno Sigrist with acting preparation by Paula Ravache.

In a futuristic Brazil devastated by disasters and human arrogance, only one survivor remains: Alê, a São Paulo native from Itaim Bibi tasked with rebuilding humanity. Isolated in a pop-style bunker with embryos created by his scientist grandmother and guided by MABÊ—the last artificial intelligence on Earth—he confronts his habits, delusions, and fragilities.

The play’s central question asks whether we could rebuild civilization without repeating hierarchies and privileges. Through dark humor and social discomfort, the performance exposes the absurdity of whiteness and the structures of privilege that shape inequality.

Referencing classic dystopias such as Back to the Future and Bicentennial Man, the piece draws on nostalgia to engage current social and political tensions. In a pre-election climate, it serves as both comic relief and critical mirror.

Running 50 minutes, “Branco Ancestral” embraces minimalism and tragicomic elements in its staging. The production is by Scarpellini Produções and Ogum.lab.

Service

Show: Branco Ancestral

Date: December 8, Monday, at 8 p.m.

Venue: Teatro Estúdio — Rua Conselheiro Nébias, 891, Santa Cecília, São Paulo

Duration: 50 minutes | Rating: 14+

Tickets: R$ 100 (full) and R$ 50 (half) via Sympla. Box office opens two hours before the show.

Accessibility: Reserved seating available for people with disabilities and obese attendees via email at contato@teatroestudio.com.br

Photo: Vitor Vieira