From the state of Pernambuco, MARACATU is a cultural manifestation that mixes elements of theater and music. Its origins goes back to the Reis do Congo (Kings of the Congo) procession that existed since the Brazilian Colonial era until the slavery abolition in 1888. Acting as an intermediary between the Portuguese Colonizers (or the Brazilian government) and the black slaves, the King of Congos were required to maintain the peace among “his people”. In the churches, as custom, the king and queen, elected by their people, were cultured. The slaves celebrated by playing their drums, singing and dancing right after the sacred ceremony. From this tradition the cultural manifestation of Maracatu developed in Pernambuco. There are two varieties of Maracatus: Maracatu Nação and Maracatu Rural. Both have in commom its Afro-Brazilian origins.
The Maracatu Nação also called MARACATU BAQUE VIRADO has visible religious traces and overtones. The music style is lively and dramatic. The ensemble usually consists of percussion and a procession that has as primary figures the “king” and “Queen”. They are encircle by costumed consorts and protected by a canopy.
Maracatu Rural also called as Maracatu de Baque Solto ensembles sugarcane workers and its rooted in the interior. It has afro-indigineous origins. It advanced from the fusion of pre-existing forms of Carnival merrymaking.
Maracatu rhythms influenced successful contemporary fusions as the Mangue Beat movement and Chico Science's music. Chico Science was one of the most famous musicians of the last decades. He were greatly inspired by the Maracatu tradition!
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