Banda de Ipanema lived up to the tradition of opening Rio de Janeiro's Street Carnival festivities two weeks before the official date. On this first parade there were mostly locals and loyal fans that come every year to participate in drag, plain clothes, swimsuits or whatever strike their fancy.
Characters from Banda de Ipanema's drag hall of fame such as Neusa Suely, Milita Namour, the duo Sucker and Fucker, and the hilarious Carmen Miranda with the suitcase were all there. For the next parade we count on the presence of many other familiar faces and newcomers to add to the glamour. Join us at the concentration at 4 p.m. at Praca General Osorio on Carnival Saturday or Tuesday to participate!
