Fall season is back, bringing the last Candombe parade in Montevideo. It takes place in the Malvin area, along Rivera avenue.
The parade colors are stunning, but I chose to use black and white this year.
Lots of enthusiasm this year - more of an amateur and family feeling, a popular feast - and full rythm as always.
The old dancers are my favorite subjects in these parades. They move with agility, even though they simulate back aches and arthritis, and most of them are very elegant dancers.
I like to watch the preparations for the parade. All the effort that the amateur groups develop for their show is plainly in view. It all takes place in a small area, close to the beginning of the parade.
For instance, a group of girls check their makeup.
Nearby, a dance group poses for the photographers...
...while drums get tuned to the heat of a small fire, improvised with old newspapers and small firewood.
Everybody was taking pictures, even with toys - this little girl was assisting her enthusiastic mother.
Glad to be part of it, and thanks for looking!
Technical: Minolta Hi-Matic 9, an old rangefinder camera launched back in 1966. Film: Ilford Pan 400, developed in Rodinal 1+50.
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Nicely done series. People working hard together to make a good time for all. I think the closest Albuquerque gets to that kind of celebration is the Dia de Los Muertos parade, though there are also some neighborhood events that incorporate some of same dedication and enthusiasm.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mike. These groups train for about 9 months each year. I believe it is all about the fun they have.
ReplyDeleteCandombe was a low-life, almost clandestine thing back when I was a child. Fortunately it did a big comeback in the mid 80s, and now is completely mainstream.