Gil Andar com Fé musical premieres in São Paulo

The musical “Gil Andar com Fé” has premiered in São Paulo, chronicling the life and career of Brazilian musician Gilberto Gil. Directed by Miguel Falabella, the production uses Gil’s exile during the 1970s military dictatorship as a central theme to explore how art confronted political repression.

The play incorporates various cultural influences, including Gil’s 1977 trip to Lagos, Nigeria, and his connection to Afrobeat artist Fela Kuti. The scenography draws inspiration from Brazilian avant-garde artists such as Lygia Clark and Alfredo Volpi. The narrative, written by Newton Moreno, also touches on personal milestones, including the end of Gil's marriage to Sandra Gadelha.

Actor Gui Ventura stars as Gilberto Gil. Ventura underwent intensive preparation, including vocal, physical, and dietary adjustments, to portray the musician in the two-hour performance. He described the role as a significant responsibility, requiring a deep study of Gil’s gestures, pauses, and vocal resonance to avoid caricature.