União de Maricá unveils Darcy Ribeiro tribute for 2027 Rio Carnival

The Rio de Janeiro samba school União de Maricá announced that its debut in the Grupo Especial in 2027 will feature the theme “Utopia Brasil: Darcy Ribeiro,” honoring the renowned anthropologist, educator and writer. The enredo, developed by carnavalesco Edson Pereira, will trace Ribeiro’s life from his childhood in Minas Gerais to his contributions to public education, indigenous rights and the founding of the University of Brasília, as well as his ties to Maricá.

The school also opened a samba‑enredo competition with a total prize of R$ 100 000 for the winning partnership. The contest is open to composers nationwide, allowing teams of up to eight members. After the synopsis release, the school will hold workshops and internal auditions, with song submissions due on 24 August at the União de Maricá headquarters. The first showcase will occur at the school’s Feijoada on 29 August, followed by elimination rounds and a final on 18 September.