The Dragões da Real samba school took to the Sambódromo do Anhembi on the night of February 28, 2025, delivering a stunning performance titled "A vida é um sonho pintado em aquarela!" which translates to "Life is a Dream Painted in Watercolors!" Inspired by the beloved song "Aquarela" by Toquinho, the school celebrated the cycles of life with vibrant colors and heartfelt emotion.
Leading the charge was Renato Remondini, affectionately known as Tomate, who serves as the president of the samba school. The event marked not only the celebration of Carnival but also paid tribute to the life and dreams of Jorge Freitas' grandson, Jorginho, who had passed away just over a year ago at the tender age of eight. His aspirations of becoming an astronaut were woven throughout the performance, encapsulating the innocence and ambition of childhood.
The preparations for the evening began long before the samba school's presentation, which was the third to perform during the Special Group parades this year. At precisely 0h10, the sound of drums echoed through the Sambódromo, and the audience was treated to visually stunning floats and elaborate costumes. This year's performance intricately depicted various phases of life, symbolizing childhood, youth, adulthood, and the caregiving of memories for those who are no longer with us.
The carnival's theme was encapsulated perfectly by Jorge Freitas, who stated, "A vida é um sonho pintado em aquarela!" emphasizing just how pivotal life is as portrayed through the art of samba.
The atmosphere was electric as Arthur Soares, the young standout from the school’s front commission, brought his charm and energy to the stage. Arthur's performance, which paid homage to Jorginho, left spectators spellbound. Referring to his performance, Arthur shared, "My mom said when I embrace Jorge, I need to give him a strong hug, like his grandson would."
Celebrations started early as the school promised its fans an emotionally charged display. Prior to the parade, Tomate addressed his samba community, recognizing not only the team but also the inspiring spirit of Jorginho, saying, "Today, for each of you and above all for the boy who is watching us. That boy who was the inspiration for our theme. That astronaut, our astronaut Jorginho. It’s for you, Jorginho, it’s for you we will put on the show tonight!"
The performance, lasting 63 minutes—two minutes short of the maximum allowed—also featured complex choreography, crafted under the watchful eye of the school’s choreographer Ricardo Negreiros. The samba-enredo, written by various composers including Galo and Léo do Cavaco, was sung beautifully by Renê Sobral, the official interpreter who brought life to the lyrics with his heartfelt delivery.
The narrative within the parade connoted memories, joy, and the inevitable pain associated with loss, focusing on honoring dreams and familial connections. With his signature call, Tomate declared the stage not solely for vibrant celebrations but also as space for remembrance, illustrating the duality of joy and sorrow present within Carnival. The depiction of life’s stages through the visual medium of samba and the recognizable imagery of Toquinho's song deeply connected with the audience, evoking tears and laughter alike.
Dragões da Real is celebrated as one of São Paulo's samba powerhouses with its recent history solidifying its reputation, including being the vice-champions of the 2024 Special Group. Members and attendees expressed optimism and excitement, fueled by the school’s commitment to tradition and innovation, ensuring each performance continues to honor the legacy of samba culture.
At the end of the night, after their show-stopping performance, the atmosphere at the Sambódromo remained charged with anticipation for the final results, which would not be revealed until March 4, 2025. The Dragões da Real, with their expressive tribute to the emotional spectrum of life and their focus on community ties, once again showcased why they remain one of the most original forces within the São Paulo Carnival scene.