No more samba on the strand? Rio de Janeiro to limit live music on the beaches

Mayor Eduardo Paes issued a decree in mid-May establishing new rules for the city’s waterfront, saying he wants to preserve urban order, public safety and the environment, as well as promote peaceful relations between tourists and residents. The new measures came into force on June 1, and they outlaw food and drink sales, chair rentals, loudspeakers and even live music in kiosks without official permits. Also, beach huts are only allowed to have a number rather than the often-creative names many are currently known by. Some have welcomed the move to tackle what they perceive as chaotic activity on the beach, but others say the decree threatens Rio’s dynamic beach culture and the livelihoods of many musicians and local vendors who may find it difficult or impossible to get permits. The move to regulate music on Rio’s beachfronts has particularly struck a nerve. “It’s difficult to imagine Rio de Janeiro without bossa nova, without samba on the beach,” said Julio Trindade, who works as a DJ in the kiosks. The restrictions on music amount to “silencing the soul of the waterfront. It compromises the spirit of a democratic, musical, vibrant, and authentic Rio,” Orla Rio, a concessionaire who manages more than 300 kiosks, said in a statement. Some are seeking ways to stop the implementation of the decree or at least modify it to allow live music without a permit. But so far, to little avail. Local councilwoman Dani Balbi lashed out against the bill on social media. “What’s the point of holding big events with international artists and neglecting the people who create culture every day in the city?” she said on Instagram, in reference to the huge concerts by Lady Gaga in May and Madonna last year. For Rebecca Thompson, 53, who hails from Wales and was again visiting Rio after a five-week trip last year, the frenzy is part of the charm. “There’s vibrancy, there’s energy. For me, there’s always been a strong sense of community and acceptance. I think it would be very sad if that were to go,” she said. This article was provided by The Associated Press.