Renowned samba dancer Carlinhos do Salgueiro brings the vibrant rhythm of Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival to Los Angeles. Known for his mastery of samba no pé and his cultural work worldwide, he continues to promote Afro-Brazilian dance through performances, workshops, and international collaborations.
By Lindenberg Junior
Carlinhos do Salgueiro is widely recognized as one of the most respected names in Brazilian samba and a living symbol of Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival culture.
Celebrated for his charisma, technical precision, and dedication to Afro-Brazilian dance, Carlinhos has spent decades representing the spirit of samba on stages around the world.
Today, his journey continues in Los Angeles, where he is sharing the rhythm and heritage of Brazil with new audiences.
A Special Appearance at the Hollywood Carnival
Carlinhos arrived on June 20, 2025, to participate in the Hollywood Carnival Parade, taking place on June 21.
During the event, he was honored with the title of Carnival King, performing alongside Jonia Queen, founder of the Raiz Brazil Dance Company, who was crowned Carnival Queen.
The celebrations also included:
A special tribute party with free admission on June 22
Dance workshops led by Carlinhos through his Samba no Pé Project
These events allowed the local community to experience authentic Brazilian samba directly from one of its most respected practitioners.
A Legacy Born in Madureira
Carlinhos was born and raised in Madureira, one of the most traditional samba neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro.
He gained recognition as a lead passista at the legendary samba school Acadêmicos do Salgueiro.
It was on the famous stage of the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí that his talent truly shined.
His dancing combines:
precise samba footwork
grace and elegance
deep Afro-Brazilian cultural expression
For many samba enthusiasts, his performances represent not just dance — but stories of joy, resilience, and identity.
From Rio to the World
Over the years, Carlinhos has taken Brazilian samba across the globe.
He has performed and taught workshops in countries including:
Japan
France
Switzerland
Germany
United States
His arrival in Los Angeles marks another chapter in this international journey, bringing the unmistakable energy of Rio’s Carnival to the City of Angels.
Through workshops and performances, Carlinhos teaches not only dance steps, but also the history, rhythm, and cultural meaning of samba.
The Educator Behind the Dancer
Beyond his fame as a performer, Carlinhos is deeply committed to education and mentorship.
His teaching style reflects the traditional way samba has been transmitted for generations — through community, rhythm, and lived experience.
Students often describe his classes as transformative spaces where they can explore:
movement
cultural identity
personal expression
In Rio de Janeiro, he is also involved in social projects in favelas, offering free dance classes for young people as a tool for empowerment and cultural preservation.
A Global Voice of Brazilian Culture
Despite traveling the world, Carlinhos remains strongly connected to his roots in Madureira and the Salgueiro samba school.
Every year he participates in Rio Carnival, either performing or helping guide choreography for samba school dancers.
For many Brazilians living abroad, watching Carlinhos perform or attending his workshops is a powerful reminder of home.
A Bridge Between Brazil and the World
More than a dancer, Carlinhos do Salgueiro represents a living bridge between cultures.
His art carries the heartbeat of Brazil — a rhythm that continues to echo from Rio’s Sambadrome to dance studios and stages across the globe.
Now, in Los Angeles, that rhythm keeps spreading — connecting communities through the universal language of samba.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Carlinhos do Salgueiro?
Carlinhos do Salgueiro is a renowned Brazilian samba dancer and cultural ambassador known for his work with the samba school Acadêmicos do Salgueiro and for promoting samba worldwide.
What is Samba no Pé?
Samba no pé is the traditional solo samba dance style performed by passistas during the Rio Carnival, characterized by fast footwork and rhythmic hip movements.
What event did Carlinhos participate in Los Angeles?
He participated in the Hollywood Carnival Parade, where he was honored as Carnival King.
Where is Carlinhos from in Brazil?
He was born and raised in Madureira, one of the most traditional samba communities in Rio de Janeiro.
What samba school is he associated with?
Carlinhos became famous as a lead passista at Acadêmicos do Salgueiro, one of the most iconic schools in Rio’s Carnival.
