Four Worlds International Institute Directory

The original objective of this project was to revive and divulge Samba culture, understood as a manifestation of a grassroots cultural resistance. This is being done particularly by the Afro-Brazilian population and the movement to revitalize the Port region.

The intention was:

• To develop and maintain unity amongst the residents and friends of the area.
• To promote cultural activities.
• To safeguard the quality of life in the community.
• To unite the energy of all the residents and friends of the area in the creation and development of community activities.
• To participate with other entities that have common interests.
• To create the Pedra do Sal Cultural Center.

The team holds meetings in order to organize the events. The events production is based on decisions taken at these meetings. 

Each member of the team has a role: public relations, visual programmer, research, production, technical engineering, best-boy, head chef, driver, director, lighting, presenter, treasurer. All the members of the team are volunteers.

The event, "Samba Salt - A Tribute to Samba Greats" always takes place on the second Sunday of each month, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm, in the João Baiana (Pedra do Sal) square. This is in the Saúde neighborhood which is in the Port region of Rio de Janeiro.

The format for the event is like this: in the morning the team organizes the setting up of the stage, the amplifiers, lighting, the tents, and the tables. Then the musicians and their sound-tests. The food is prepared the day before at the home of the head cook, which is near the event.

The event begins with speeches about the Samba artist being honored that day and about the cultural importance of the region. The speeches are given by relatives of the honorees. Then lunch is served, at a price of 5 (five) Reais. The party continues with the presentation of an invited cultural group and finally with the Samba show.

• Preservation of local culture within the process of the revitalization of the Port region.
• A genuine leisure option for the community.
• Dozens of events have now taken place with great success in all aspects.
• Participation of the community. 
• The validation of Brazilian Popular Music.
• The recognition of the historic and cultural importance of the Port Area, especially the "Pedra do Sal" where the first sambas were composed.

Factors responsible for success:

• The presence of a large audience.
• The rescuing of great names responsible for the validation of Brazilian Popular Music like: Pixiguinha, Joao da Baiana, Sinh and Donga.
• The physical space.
• The fact that the area is safe.
• The bringing back of artists forgotten by the media.
• The incentives for new artists.
• The presence of folkloric and theatrical demonstrations.