The samba school Imperatriz Leopoldinense has announced that renowned singer Ney Matogrosso will be the theme of its plot for the upcoming 2026 Rio Carnival. The announcement was made on Sunday, May 4, 2025, just days after the premiere of Matogrosso's biopic, "Homem com H." This year's theme, titled "Camaleônico," will be developed by celebrated carnavalesco Leandro Vieira, who aims to highlight the unique place Matogrosso holds in the Brazilian cultural landscape.
Matogrosso, who will turn 85 in 2026, is considered one of the most significant figures in Brazilian popular music (MPB). His extensive career has produced numerous hits, including "Sangue Latino," "Rosa de Hiroshima," "Homem com H," and "Metamorfose Ambulante." The theme "Camaleônico" seeks to celebrate not only Matogrosso's musical contributions but also his performative virtuosity, which has captivated audiences for over fifty years.
Leandro Vieira expressed his vision for the parade, stating that it will showcase Matogrosso's singularity within the Brazilian imagination. He described the artist as a "chameleon," reflecting both his musical versatility and his ever-evolving visual identity. Vieira emphasized that Matogrosso transcends the boundaries of conventional cultural figures, embodying a multitude of personas—from a bandit to a gypsy, and even a faun—each representing different aspects of Brazilian culture.
In a recent interview, Vieira noted, "Ney is a chameleon not only for the musical versatility he has built over more than fifty years but also for the extraordinary mutable visual identity that captivates us. He is the man of Neanderthal, the Bicho-homem, and the Pássaro-homem. In performance, he is a bandido, bandoleiro, and cigano. A coveted doll, a Man with H, an adventurer, and unclassifiable. A chameleonic and carnival faun interests me." This reflects the depth of Matogrosso's artistry and the diverse influences he has brought to Brazilian culture.
The decision to honor Matogrosso comes a decade after Vieira created a memorable plot about another MPB icon, Maria Bethânia, which helped the Estação Primeira de Mangueira win the championship in 2016. This time, Vieira's work for Imperatriz Leopoldinense aims to anchor the richness of Brazilian culture through the lens of Matogrosso's artistry. The parade will take place on Sunday, February 15, 2026, where Imperatriz Leopoldinense will be the second school to perform at the Marquês de Sapucaí.
The announcement was made during the popular television program "Fantástico" on Rede Globo, ensuring that the news reached a wide audience. Following the announcement, the samba school shared an official statement via Instagram, emphasizing Matogrosso's iconic status in Brazilian culture. The statement highlighted that the theme "Camaleônico" aims to exalt the diversity of Brazilian culture, appealing to those who cherish freedom and creativity.
As part of the preparations for the carnival, Vieira will present the synopsis of the plot to interested composers on May 27, 2025, at the school's headquarters located at Rua Professor Lacé, 235, in Ramos. This event will allow composers to engage with the theme and contribute to the musical elements of the parade.
The timing of this announcement coincides with the recent release of Matogrosso's biopic, which premiered on May 1, 2025. Directed by Esmir Filho, the film explores Matogrosso's life and career, showcasing his defiance against societal norms and celebrating his role as a trailblazer in the artistic community. Filho remarked, "In a society that sometimes tries to box us in, Ney has stepped out of that box. I think he has opened doors for everyone in the artistic world and many others to express their sexuality, gender, and form."
This biographical film has undoubtedly rekindled interest in Matogrosso's storied career, making the carnival tribute even more poignant. As the samba school prepares for the event, the anticipation builds not only for the celebration of Matogrosso's legacy but also for the creative expressions that will emerge from the collaboration between Vieira and the composers.
With a career that spans generations, Ney Matogrosso's influence on Brazilian music and culture remains profound. His unique style, characterized by striking aesthetics and an unmistakable stage presence, has made him a beloved figure in the hearts of many. The upcoming carnival will serve as a grand platform to honor his contributions and celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Brazilian culture.
As the date of the parade approaches, both the samba school and fans of Matogrosso eagerly await the opportunity to witness the creative expression of his life's work in a vibrant and colorful spectacle. The theme "Camaleônico" promises to be a fitting tribute to an artist whose journey has inspired countless individuals and continues to resonate within the fabric of Brazilian society.
