Grupo Corpo at Center Theatre Group at the Ahmanson Theatre

Founded in 1975 by brothers Artistic Director Paulo Pederneiras and choreographer Rodrigo Pederneiras, the Brazilian dance company Grupo Corpo (meaning “Body Group” in Portuguese) is renowned for its unparalleled blend of popular Brazilian culture, African rhythms and classical technique. The program opens with Pederneiras' 1992 work 21, a ballet divided into three movements that weaves rhythmic and timbral combinations around the number 21. Audiences will be captivated by the musical score’s unique sounds, emanating from composer Marco Antonio Guimarães’ unusual instrumental creations. For Gira, Pederneiras immersed himself in the history and practices of Brazil’s Afro-Brazilian religions, particularly Umbanda, transforming the rituals into a universal expression of humanity and emphasizing the trance-like turning and movement that characterize these ceremonies. “It is the sheer physical virtuosity of the company that is so impressive—the sinuous, athletic bodies seemingly inexhaustible.” —The Guardian, London