Contact
Metzi Henriquez | metziquez@aol.com
Fogo Na Roupa dancers, led by Linda Yudin from Viver Brasil, in Carnaval San Francisco's 2023 parade. Photo: Courtesy of the organization.
Fogo Na Roupa
Music and dance of the Afro-Brazilian Carnaval
About the Organization
Fogo Na Roupa, founded in 1989, is a Bay Area, award-winning Grupo Carnavalesco and performing company which combines the community’s raw spirit with the technical expertise of its illustrious Founding Director, the late Mestre Carlos Aceituno. The name, which means “Clothes On Fire,” is symbolic of the hot energy—generated by innovative rhythms and infectious dance moves—that has created dedicated Canavalescos in the greater Bay Area. Under the artistic direction of Jose Rivera and Metzi Henriquez, Fogo continues to fire up the crowds, winning multiple San Francisco Carnaval Grand Championships, Best of the Bay 2011, and a 2012 “Corazon Del Barrio Award” from Mission Cultural Center. Their mission is to provide cultural education of Afro-Brazilian Carnaval traditions through music and dance, while creating a safe community for emerging BIPOC artists.
Living Cultures Grant
2023
Sparks of Fogo Kids and Youth Program
Fogo Na Roupa will expand its Sparks of Fogo Kids and Youth Program: weekly dance and drum classes during which BIPOC youth learn the origins of Brazilian rhythms and dances, and also bring in street dance and music. Ultimately, the youth will perform with Fogo Na Roupa’s contingent in Carnaval San Francisco’s Grand Parade and a stage presentation.
