PARAÍSO

PARAÍSO returns to Braga for another edition dedicated to celebrating Afro-descendant and Lusophone artistic expressions, this year under the theme Past and Future in Afro-descendancy.

At a time when it is essential to reflect on what came before us in order to imagine what lies ahead, this edition invites audiences to consider the many ways of existing between the heritage we inherit and the realities we collectively build.

Through the strands of Performance, Discourse and Mediation, PARAÍSO establishes itself as a space in constant expansion and one of active listening. This year’s programme brings together cinema, music and dance, alongside critical discussions on practices of resisting coloniality, anti-racist education in the arts, community celebration and its cultural agents, as well as gastronomy.

In 2026, PARAÍSO once again takes place at Theatro Circo and gnration, returns to Livraria Centésima Página, and brings together artists, researchers, and local and national organisations, further expanding the network for exchange and the collective development of ideas around this year’s theme.

PROGRAMME:

11 September (Fri)

6 p.m. · Livraria Centésima Página · PARAÍSO Talks
What forms of existence can emerge between what we inherit and what we build?
with David Ferreira, Isabel Macedo and Saidatina Khady Dias
moderated by Marisa Rodrigues (BANTUMEN)
(Free admission)

9:30 p.m. · gnration · Film + Talk
Si Destinu (2015)
by Vanessa Fernandes
talk with Kitty Furtado and Vanessa Fernandes
(Free admission)

12 September (Sat)

11 a.m. · gnration · Mediation
Anti-Racist Handbook for Arts and Education: Presentation of the Process
with Dori Nigro, Melissa Rodrigues and Raquel Lima (União Negra das Artes)

1 p.m. · gnration · Gastronomy
Cachupa Lunch – Chef Ana Teresa Correia + DJ Chipula
(free admission upon registration at participacao@theatrocirco.com)

3 p.m. · gnration · PARAÍSO Talks
Art, participation and practices of resisting coloniality: the role of collective creation in building alternative futures
with António Zaqueu, Luege D’Olim and Sarina Azevedo
moderated by Luiza Lins (CONCILIARE)
(Free admission)

4:30 p.m. · gnration · Workshop and Music
Dance Workshop
with Eddie Folige and DJ Chipula
(Free admission)

9:30 p.m. · Theatro Circo · Music
Cesária Évora Orchestra
with Ceuzany, Lucibela, Elida Almeida and Teófilo Chantre