Carnaval is one of Brazil’s most-anticipated (and most-attended) annual events. Occurring from February 17th to the 22nd this year, various festivals and parades—filled with samba dancers in elaborate, colorful costumes—were held across the country in honor of the festive season, which celebrates the beginning of Lent.
For years now, Brazilian singer-songwriter and drag queen Pabllo Vittar has engaged in such celebrations in her native country—but she says this year’s Carnaval was especially meaningful. “It is my favorite time of year, and I missed it for the past two years,” says Vittar. “Carnaval is a moment that you can shine even more! The outfits, the energy, the party; The feeling is unlike anything I have ever experienced in the world yet.”
Vittar certainly had lots of parties to partake in during her busy Carnaval last week. The pop star was booked and busy, playing 8 shows in 5 different cities. “Carnaval is important all over Brazil, and is an amazing time for the whole country to come out to celebrate in every town,” says Vittar. “It was crazy—a lot of work, but a lot of fun.”
The pop star traveled to Rio de Janeiro, Aracati, São Paulo, Salvador, and Recife to perform at various outside parties, where she performed tracks off her new album Noitada. “I will specifically always remember playing at Marco Zero in Recife,” says Vittar. “It is a very important stage, and it was a dream of mine to play there.” Another highlight for the performer was playing in São Paulo—her fourth time attending in the city, which serves as a major Carnaval hub alongside Rio de Janeiro. “São Paulo is one of the biggest crowds in the country,” says Vittar.
Of course, with so many engagements, Vittar needed statement performance looks. Working with stylist Vitor Moreira Ferreira, the star embraced campy costumes that nodded to iconic film or manga characters. “Dressing up as characters is a cultural moment in Brazilian Carnaval, and I just love it,” says Vittar. “I love the fantasy of the costumes and characters I get to play.” Among her noteworthy ensembles? She cosplayed as Rogue from X-Men, the fabulous (but deadly) Kitana from Mortal Kombat, even the killer doll from M3GAN, too. The star says coming up with such unlikely inspirations, and then stylishly executing them, is a highlight of hers every Carnaval. “Every year I am searching for different references to bring something fun and playful to my shows!”
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