The Festival

The most beautiful festival in Brazil!

This is the perfect phrase to define the Opera of Serra da Capivara.

The vigorous encounter of all arts, all techniques, many rhythms, and diverse colors in the ancestral heart of Brazil could only result in this extraordinary experience that takes place every year in São Raimundo Nonato and in the Serra da Capivara National Park, in the Sertão of Piauí.

The beauty of art is born from the sublime synergy between the generosity of nature and human inventiveness.

The forest, in its magnificence, provides the primordial raw material, while the human mind and body, in their infinite capacity to create, shape and transform these elements into expressions that transcend imagination. From the vibrant rhythms and movements to the elegance of nature’s forms, each scene, each piece of music is a testament to the pact between the natural world and the creative world, resulting in a wonderful spectacle that inspires, moves, and connects people!

—
Sádia Castro
General Director
Founder of the Opera of Serra da Capivara

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Act "The Phantom of The Ópera"

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“The Phantom of the Opera of Serra da Capivara” is an innovative and culturally rich adaptation of the classic “The Phantom of the Opera”, set against the majestic caves and canyons of Serra da Capivara, in Northeastern Brazil. This production celebrates the beauty and history of the region, incorporating elements of local traditions and nature.

This adaptation not only reimagines a classic, but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Northeastern Brazil, highlighting the importance of preserving both history and nature. With performances that bring together elements of dance, traditional music, and acrobatics, “The Phantom of the Opera of Serra da Capivara” promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience that connects past and present in a moving and immersive narrative.

—
Felipe Guerra
Art Director
Founder of the Opera of Serra da Capivara

 

Ancestral Amphitheater

The stage change of the Opera of Serra da Capivara in 2025—from the Pedra Furada amphitheater to the Eco Teatro Serra da Capivara, located very close to the previous site, in front of a gigantic stone curtain—is a strategic decision that reflects the festival’s growth and evolution. It also addresses a fundamental concern with the preservation of the archaeological, natural, and cultural heritage of the Serra da Capivara National Park, which is a Federal Conservation Unit.

The Pedra Furada amphitheater, with its natural beauty and historical importance, was the iconic setting of the festival. However, with the growing success of the event and the increase in audience, it became evident that the space, although enchanting, was no longer sufficient to comfortably accommodate all participants. More importantly, the preservation of archaeological sites is a priority, and the festival’s expansion requires a responsible approach to minimize environmental and cultural impacts.

The choice of a new venue that retains the natural features of the previous one—such as the stone curtain, the open-air environment, and the closeness to nature—ensures that the essence and atmosphere are preserved. This new space will allow the event to continue growing, offering an even richer experience for the audience without compromising the integrity of the archaeological sites and the environment.

Moreover, this change represents an opportunity to revitalize the cultural experience offered by the festival, expanding production possibilities and creating an environment that continues to celebrate the connection between art, history, and nature—the hallmark of the Opera of Serra da Capivara. In this way, the festival continues to evolve while remaining faithful to its commitment to culture and the preservation of humanity’s heritage.

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Sustainability and Solidarity

Bringing together good people, art, and music in the midst of nature must generate positive impacts on people and the planet. We work with the vision of a regenerative and sustainable future!

The entire event is planned and carried out to generate the least possible impact on the local environment.

• We offer shuttle service for the audience to reduce vehicle circulation.

• Chemical restrooms and selective waste collection are provided.

• All recyclable waste is donated to the local waste pickers’ association.

• We comply with the rules and regulations of the environmental agencies responsible for managing the Serra da Capivara National Park.

• We obtain the necessary environmental permits for holding the event at the Pedra Furada amphitheater.

• We collect non-perishable food items for distribution among underprivileged communities surrounding the venue.

• We distribute, free of charge, 40% of tickets for indoor performances among tourist guides, the local community, and event workers.

• We offer several free workshops for the training and qualification of people from local communities.

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The Opera and the Local Economy

The Opera of Serra da Capivara strongly contributes to consolidating the Serra da Capivara National Park as an important driver of tourism in Piauí, and to the sustainable development of the state’s southeastern region, through art and culture.

The strengthening of the local economy has been evident since the very first edition of the festival. This is demonstrated by the significant increase in commerce in the surrounding cities: months in advance, inns, hotels, and family-run guesthouses reach full capacity; demand for restaurants, bars, snack bars, markets, and the production and sale of souvenirs increases by more than 300%.