We Finally Get to Give an Ovation

Today was a late morning start which was much enjoyed by all. We met at the university at 11 AM and were off to a buffet lunch. We had a chance to eat lunch with some of our billets and it was fun to get to know some of them better. We also got to know our two guides a little better as they came along and shared more information with us. They were shared a mix of interesting facts and dry humour that kept us both informed and amused. The fun really began after lunch when we visited a samba school. The pounding music, fast feet and hip action where incredible and daunting to watch. Some people got in on the action. After watching the dancers perform we were encouraged to join them. Some brave souls tried it while others sat in chairs and filmed them for future blackmailing purposes. Those who joined in were enthusiastic but quickly discovered you can't learn to samba simply by watching someone do it. Overall it was a great culture experience.

After lunch we drove to Batatais to visit the Good Lord Jesus of Green Sugarcane Church (sugar cane is grown in the area). The church had beautiful artwork and stained glass windows of different scenes from the Bible. Outside of the church was a fare with women selling crocheted goods and food. We seem to cause a stir wherever we go and always know when people are aware of our presence even if they speak in Portuguese. Words like Canada and English could be heard from the announcer and soon we were asked to sing a few songs and of course take pictures.

Following the church tour we stopped at a mall for dinner. From there we walked to the theatre we had visited previously for one of the coolest experiences so far. We were invited to see the Symphony Orchestra of Ribeirao Preto and sing at the intermission. The concert featured a guest viola soloist from Canada. The music was amazing and I personally had various pictures of majestic animals, bright colours, calm breezes, and playful scenes running through my head. The orchestra was given four standing ovations and played three encores. The last encore we later discovered was dedicated to us. It was a samba piece and featured a fabulous trumpet solo. It was fun to be on the giving end of a standing ovation and to slowly transition claps into a steady beat to ask for an encore. We came out of the concert dancing, humming the music, and talking excitedly.