PARAÍSO

PARAÍSO returns to Braga for another edition 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 challenging 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 organisations, further expanding its network for sharing knowledge and fostering reflection around this year’s theme.

PROGRAMME
Friday, 11 September

6:00 pm → 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)

Livraria Centésima Página (free admission)

9:30 pm → Film + Talk

Si Destinu (2016), by Vanessa Fernandes

Talk with Kitty Furtado and Vanessa Fernandes

gnration (free admission)

Saturday, 12 September

11:00 am → Mediation

Anti-Racist Handbook for Arts and Education: Presentation of the Process

with Dori Nigro, Melissa Rodrigues and Raquel Lima (União Negra das Artes)

gnration (free admission)

1:00 pm → Gastronomy

Cachupa Lunch – Chef Ana Teresa Correia + DJ Chipula

gnration (free registration for participacao@theatrocirco.com)

3:00 pm → 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)

gnration (free admission)

4:30 pm → Workshop and Music

Dance Workshop with Eddie Folige + DJ Chipula

gnration (free admission)

9:30 pm → Music

Cesária Évora Orchestra

featuring Ceuzany, Lucibela, Elida Almeida and Teófilo Chantre

Theatro Circo