Samba do Coracao

Samba do Coracao (Samba from the Heart) is directed by Mary Dollar and Fernando de Sanjines, who are dedicated to the growth of Brazilian culture in the San Francisco Bay Area, and inspired by the many dances and rhythms of Brazil. As their name implies, the group's specialty is samba, yet their repertoire is rich and varied and each dance number is brilliantly costumed. From the earthy Afro-Brazilian rhythms of Bahia to the sensuous samba of Rio de Janeiro, be prepared to experience the spirit and colorful excitement of Carnaval with Samba do Coracao! Samba do Coracao offers a quality Brazilian Extravaganza show, with dancers and drummers and/or parade for any occasion. The group also offers a show with a six-piece Brazilian band with vocalist.

Since its formation in the summer of 1992, the Samba do Coracao has performed in numerous festivals and events in the San Francisco Bay Area. Including the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival at the Palace of Fine Arts, the Bill Graham Presents New Orleans by the Bay at the Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View and San Francisco's Biggest New Years Eve Party at the Embarcadero and Civic Center Auditoriums. They have opened for headliners, such as, the Neville Brothers, Los Van Van, Buckwheat Zydeco, Queen Ida, and Bos Scaggs. The group has also appeared at the California State Fair in Sacramento, La Pena Cultural Center in Berkeley, Standford University's Brazilian Dance Week, Sam's Town Casino in las Vegas and Alaska State Fair in Palmer Alaska. In addition, Samba do Coracao participates in numerous parades, including nine San Francisco Carnaval Parades. Every year, the group has been honored with top awards, including First Place in dance, music, costumes and overall visuals. For two consecutive years, Samba do Coracao has also been awarded San Francisco Carnaval's Best Brazilian Group, as well as received Second Grand Prize Overall!