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Carnival in Rio
HOW THE CARNIVAL IS JUDGED
There are a series of criteria which are awarded. There are judges stationed along the sambadrome judging each of the samba schools:
Theme:
The judges award points for the originality, creativity and the completeness of the script written. It is what binds all the sections together it has to be fully reflected throughout the performance. If you don’t understand and communicate your theme clearly your school will lose points.
The Theme's Evolution:
This criterion is based on the general enthusiasm of the group parading. Do they follow the beat and do they understand what it is that is required of them.
Pageantry and Trimmings:
The crowd comes to see spectacular colour and brilliance the judges are more interested in how the costumes are made and suit the theme that has been chosen.
PERCUSSION:
The rhythm section is the heart of the samba school’s performance. It is important that the beat is consistent, exciting and most importantly loud to generate the electricity that drives the people participating and those watching into dance.
SAMBA THEME:
The lyrics of the Samba are the single most important part in the communication of the theme. They have to be clear but also poetic and show good taste. It is important that they follow the Portuguese language however poetic license is allowed, as long as it fits in with the theme.
HARMONY:
Samba is not just drums. The singing of the song that explains the theme has to be in unison and in tune. Particular attention is paid to the harmonies between the various sections in the Samba School.
ENSEMBLE:
The parade has to be organized. It has to move together as one, following the choreographed routine. Any gaps or mistakes are picked up in this criterion.
FANCY COSTUMES:
The costumes have to reflect the theme that has been chosen for that year. It is an integral part in the telling of the story of the parade. Points are earn primarily on the creativeness of each of the various costumes created.
MASTER OF CEREMONIES AND THE STANDARD BEARER:
This is the leader of the parade. He is to ensure that the performance reflects the highest quality required by the school and the favela that it represents.