The Pelourinho, a colonial district at the center of Salvador, Brazil, was once reviled as a notorious location where sugar plantation owners whipped their rebellious slaves; today it's a thriving cultural hub that has spawned several world-famous samba/reggae groups, including the all-female drumming and vocal group, Banda Didá. But the Pelourinho's contemporary status as a vital force in African-Brazilian culture also recognizes a debt to the earlier era of Portuguese colonial history; in particular, the legacy of Anastacia, a Bantu princess and former slave noted for her healing powers, whose martyrdom within the Pelourinho gave rise to a spiritual icon that continues to inspire the local community. Profiling Banda Didá within the context of this cultural milieu, Suzanne Girot's Girl Beat illustrates the strong ties between the band and their heritage, as well as how they have infused the people with a sense of self-empowerment that crosses social boundaries. Capturing the band's creative energy through member interviews, lively performances, and song lyrics, as well as parades and other socio-religious ceremonies in which they participate, the film also touches on the pedagogy of the Didá School of Music--a thriving nonprofit educational institution for children that focuses on teaching English and computer skills in addition to drumming and music. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (A. Cantú)
Girl Beat: Power of the Drum
(2003) 47 min. VHS: $99.95: public libraries; $275: colleges & universities. The Cinema Guild. PPR. ISBN: 0-7815-1028-7. Volume 19, Issue 5
Girl Beat: Power of the Drum
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