By Leila Monteiro Lins
BRAZILFEST 2011
“The most important is to always be involved and show the pride, passion and “joie de vivre” that the Brazilians are globally known for”, says Antonio G. Scisci, president and Founder of Itabras and BrazilFest Toronto, which is organizing the festival. “We want to be one of the best festivals to stimulate the City of Toronto.”
Voted as the Best Outdoor Brazilian Event in Toronto by the Brazilian Top Choice Award Association for 2007, 2008 & 2009, BrazilFest showcases Brazilian culture, including its food, dance and music. Among the attractions for the 8th Annual BrazilFest Toronto was a 10 member Brazilian Forro band Maria Bonita (playing the famous “forró” music from North-eastern Brazil) Toronto’s Brazilian Canadian uprising star Diogo Snow ( aka D-Snow ) , Samba De Gafiera and Brazilian Zouk Dance Lessons by Brazil Dance World and Toronto Dance Zouk , The beautiful voice and song of Juliana Caputo Capuleto singing Bossa Nova and MPB, the amazing capoeira shool AXE Capoeira Toronto, the 2 time recipient of the top choice award for top capoeira school in GTA , The 20 member group Batucada Carioca pulsating Brazilian samba and percussion rhythms just as if you were right there in Rio De Janeiro Brazil Carnival.
Brazilian Entrepreneur Marcelo Da Luz and his solar powered car the XOf 1 “ Power of One “ team vehicle was on display.
Each year the Festival has grown in size and prestige. Many Brazilians today call Canada home, many of whom are living in the Greater Toronto Area. For them, as for many visitors participating and joining in on a yearly basis, the event has become a real and authentic expression and the pride and joy of the Toronto Brazilian Community, celebrating its music, happiness and the unique touch of Brazilian friendship for all.
A wondreful job. Super helpful information.