POR AÍ
New Blood
Americans can now taste the fresh sound of the latest musical Brazilian sensation, Daúde (dah-ooh-gee). Maria Walderlurdes Costa de Santana Dutilleux — Daúde comes from her little brother inability to pronounce her name made up by the names of her parents Waldemiro and Lourdes — is from musical-talent-rich Bahia, and she has been making waves and getting critical praise not only in Brazil, but also in Japan and Europe where Daúde's album held a steady place for two months on the World Charts.
Her sound is a mix of soul, hip hop, funk, bossa nova, samba, and Northeastern rhythms. Tinder Records is releasing the singer's debut album, Daúde, the same CD that sparked the singer's career in Brazil and earned her the Sharp Award (the Brazilian Grammy) for Revelation of the Year. "The disc," wrote The Beat magazine, "with its feverish dance shakedowns interspersed with pensive numbers, is no doubt one of the year's greatest revelations." To get the CD or more information call (800) 900-4527.
The Ambassador Stays
Speculations about the impending return to Brazil of Brazilian ambassador in Washington, Paulo Tarso Flecha de Lima, 63, seem to be unfounded. The rumors became more insistent after several of Flecha de Lima's close advisors were transferred to posts in other countries. Besides, the ambassador had a series of health problems in 1995, including a stroke in August and two brain surgeries. According to the embassy, however, "he is feeling great and has totally recovered. He has received more than 4,000 visitors in 1996."
The Itamaraty, the Foreign ministry, has also been incisive: "If Ambassador Flecha de Lima returns to Brazil, we will send him back to Washington. That's where President Fernando Henrique Cardoso wants him." Good news for princess Di, who will be able to continue visiting her good friend Lúcia, the ambassador's wife, without having to stretch her flight.
Doing As Brazilians Do
A youth movement model developed and used with success with Brazilian street children has been adapted to assist youngsters in San Francisco, California. The Brazil Project of the International Child Resource Institute (ICRI) has announced the recent implementation of a pilot program called RYSE (Rising Youth for Social Equity) inspired by the Brazilian effort. One of the key beliefs of the program is that children should have a voice in decisions affecting their lives. RYSE youth will develop a microenterprise program run and staffed by the youngsters themselves. For more information, call (415) 863-1100 or send E-mail to: kidryse@aol.com
Brazil on Stage
Vestido de Noiva (The Wedding Dress), one of the most celebrated plays by late Brazilian playwright Nélson Rodrigues (1912-1980), is having its American première 54 years after being written. The Yankee version, translated and adapted by Rodrigues's son Joffre and Toby Coe, will start its five-week-long run March 15 at the Theater 40, in Beverly Hills. In Vestido de Noiva Nélson Rodrigues explores the mystery behind the hallucination of a woman who has just been in a car accident. For tickets call Theatix (213) 466-1767.
