Synopsis

In 1985, João Carlos Ramos was invited to participate in a project by Circo Voador that created three Airline Companies: one for Theater, which produced some shows; one for singing and choir, which didn’t develop due to lack of suitable conditions; and the dance one, of which he took charge of training and directing. Thus was born the Dance Airline Company, the focus of this documentary titled “The Dance of the Airline Company.”

Organized in three acts, this production addresses the origin of the company and its influences on Rio de Janeiro’s popular culture; the relationship of the shows with the audience; the expansion of access to contemporary dance beyond the artistic community; and, finally, the celebration of this legacy, highlighting the innovative samba-dance technique as a unique and captivating style.

With this approach, the documentary aims to convey the importance of the Airline Company to the history of dance in Brazil and also as a means of social inclusion, while honoring João Carlos Ramos’s journey as one of the great innovators of contemporary dance in Brazil and the world.

Led by the choreographer himself, the documentary gathers memories and testimonials from the members and artists who were part of the group. This construction also includes reenactments of the main shows/choreographies of the Dance Airline Company, archive images of João Carlos Ramos, and rehearsal classes with the current company.

Direction’s Vision

The film “The Dance of the Airline Company” is a documentary that celebrates, above all, the art of dancing, in pairs, in groups, or solo. Contemporary dance – the samba-saloon of the Airline Company and of João, with the musical background of Gafieira, samba songs, rap, or with the brass instruments of Paulo Moura, marked Rio de Janeiro’s dance scene.

The film’s script is structured around three basic paths of image exploration.

The reunion of the old troupe of the Airline Company.

The members of the company from the 80s and 90s reunite and tell us their personal stories and experiences lived within the group. The experiences and learnings felt through dance.

This reunion takes place in the theater, on stage, an artistic space. Where the troupe plays, reminiscing in conversations and dancing again.

Young dancers, invited by João Carlos Ramos, recreate in the theater the famous choreographies of the shows Mistura e Manda, Bandanéon, O Bolero, Fibra, among others.

This rehearsal show takes us back to João Carlos Ramos’s body work and creation method.

Guiding the viewer, João Carlos’s voice accompanies us throughout the film, whether through the artist’s voice, in close-ups of his body/movement, or in walks through the streets of Rio that marked his life journey and inspired his artistic inspiration.

“The Dance Airline Company achieves choreographic flights that showcase João Carlos’s talent.”
(Jaime Arôxa)

“João Carlos Ramos has the audacity to choreograph what is instinctive and spontaneous – and it is this attempt (I would even say this dream) that makes the great transition from merely folklore to artistic. From unconscious flame to cultural act.”
(Aldir Blanc)

“The Dance Airline Company is a fine mixture of the best popular dance with a vibrant way of inventing towards the modern, the new. It tastes like Brazil with the universality that only art can provide. Seeing the group, we dance inside.”
(Herbert de Souza – Betinho)

Target Audience

The documentary “The Dance of the Airline Company” is a work that attracts a broad and diverse audience. Its appeal is directed mainly at those interested in contemporary dance who wish to learn more about its history and evolution in Brazil. These viewers will find in the documentary a rich source of information on the subject.

Furthermore, the production also appeals to those wishing to learn more about Brazilian popular culture, especially regarding dance – those who are fascinated by the different styles and their cultural roots. In this sense, it’s a unique opportunity to delve into one of the most fascinating elements of Brazilian dance culture: samba-dance.

Another likely target audience includes art, history, and Brazilian culture enthusiasts. “The Dance of the Airline Company” offers a panoramic view, from historical and social perspectives, of the evolution of art and dance in Brazil, addressing the main artistic movements and relevant names in the country.

Lastly, the documentary also has a strong social appeal, especially concerning inclusion through art. The work portrays the story of a group of dancers who overcame social and economic barriers to carve their space on stage. For those interested in social issues and who believe in the transformative power of art, “The Dance of the Airline Company” is an inspiring and emotional work.

Justification

The documentary “The Dance of the Airline Company” holds great historical, artistic, and social relevance by celebrating the greatest successes of the Airline Company of Dance, led by João Carlos Ramos. Throughout the film, the main shows/choreographies are reenacted, allowing the audience to understand the company’s evolution and its contribution to contemporary dance in Brazil.

Despite its pioneering and originality, the Airline Company never received the recognition and visibility it deserved. The extremely creative work developed, different from what was seen abroad,