Manhattan- More than 200 people gathered at Cinema Village on the East Village in Manhattan on the evening of last Sunday, November 2nd to celebrate the life and legacy of Brazil’s musical treasure, the singer, composer and activist Milton Nascimento. As a coincidence, Milton just turned 83 years old a week ago and the occasion was marked by hundreds of homages on social media, national TV shows, and the cheering of his family, friends and music partners. The screening of Flavia Moraes’ award-winning doc “Milton Bituca Nascimento” was the highlight of the 4th NY BRAZILIAN FILM SERIES.
The film was well received by the 2 simultaneous sold-out sessions, an energized audience made of professional from various mediums, including artists, journalists, actors, musicians, fans of Milton and Brazilian culture enthusiasts.
Founded by Artistic Director Roger Costa, the NY Brazilian Film Series has been engaging alternative culture enthusiasts into an immersive multi-cultural experience for the past 2 years. For its 4th edition it aimed to highlight the influence of Brazilian culture in the global arts and to support local Brazilian/American artists living and working in the area. Popular singer Ana Fernandez opened the evening with her trio on an emotional tribute to Milton Nascimento. Renowned dancer Angelica Cassimiro took onto the stage for her first dance of the night, an original contemporary piece created to celebrate Milton as well, which warmed up the audience with her brilliant Afro-infused representation.
Pastries and traditional drinks were served as artist Madu Moreira also showed her skills in painting and mix media, presenting a wonderful original Milton’s painting and telling the story of her friend who recently died at a tragic accident. Journalist Leonardo Ferreira spoke about the book “Alem do Alem” on behalf of author Cesar de Souza and met literature enthusiasts at the lobby for a chance to acquire the book.
Audience members were treated to gifts, including tickets to fantastic shows at Jazz at Lincoln Center, Miller Theater, NY City Center, NJPAC, David Koch Theater and other gifts valued at more than 1 thousand dollars in giveaway prizes.
After the film screening, the audience was transported to Bahia, as the girls of BATALA NY performed a live closing music performance, fueled by their vibrant drumming. Angelica returned on a traditional Carnaval costume for a unique and interactive Samba show.
The night ended on a high note, as audience cheered in complete joy and harmony as they experienced the best in Brazilian culture. Their enthusiasm and positive vibes proved that the event was a success and brought high quality entertainment to the community.
The 4th NY Brazilian Film Series was supported by Beija Flor Restaurant, FDesign Solutions, Councilman Michael Silva and Brazilian Press Newspaper. NEON also announced there the upcoming release of Brazil’s Oscar entry, “The Secret Agent” starring Wagner Moura and on path to the Oscars, and offered free tickets for the opening weekend in NYC.
Follow @nybrazilianfilmseries on social media to keep updated on the next show happening in Spring 2026. Write an email to nybrazilianfilmseries@gmail.com telling us your experience and what do you want to watch next.
Viva a Cultura Brasileira!
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