Moacyr da Silva Pinto, known as Mestre Ciça, once again took the spotlight at the Rio Carnival by leading the Unidos do Viradouro’s drum section from atop a parade float. This reenactment of a memorable 2007 performance saw the 69-year-old maestro guiding the rhythm section during the parade at Marquês de Sapucaí.
In 2007, Viradouro’s parade theme was “A Viradouro Vira o Jogo,” featuring a massive 40-meter float resembling a chessboard. The performance was a standout, earning the school three perfect scores and a near-perfect 9.8 in the drum section category. This year, the school recreated the iconic moment, enhancing the spectacle with a grand red-clad structure complete with a staircase.
Before taking his place on the float, Mestre Ciça participated in the opening act, adding to the night’s challenges. Accompanied by his team and the drum queen, Juliana Paes, Ciça ascended the float with poise, ready to lead the “Cadência de Niterói” once more.
