Roda de Santo is a musical group born in Lisbon in 2021, with the proposal of creating a circle that celebrates the “cantigas de terreiro”—songs performed in the ceremonial spaces of Afro-Brazilian religions such as Umbanda—combined with original compositions. The group stands out for the fusion of ancestral sounds of chanting, clapping, and drumming with electronic elements, resulting in a contemporary sound that revives and updates Afro-centric cultural roots.

The syncretism of Umbanda arises from the blending of Black Africa, Catholic Europe, and Indigenous forests, reflecting its essence as an art of healing and expressed through the “pontos”—chants and rhythms specific to each saint, Orixá, or entity. These sacred songs, in addition to guiding the ritual, convey faith and a deep connection between the divine and the human.

Formed by Alvaro Lancelloti, Karla da Silva, Sara Cabral, Juninho Ibituruna, and Bartolo—Brazilians from Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Minas Gerais—the group has performed on stages in Portugal, celebrating the culture and resistance of Afro-Brazilian religions in European territory.

The show, about 90 minutes long, features a repertoire based on the original songs of the EP Roda de Santo, as well as pieces specially selected for the occasion—the group has a tradition of updating its setlist according to the celebration days of the Orixás. At their debut in Amsterdam, at Teatro Munganga, they'll pay homage to Exu—the Orixá who is the guardian of communication and is celebrated on June 13. 

Exu is revered in Afro-Brazilian religions for “opening paths” and mediating contact between the spiritual and material worlds, stimulating freedom of expression and creativity.
Representing joy, communication, and transformation, his presence highlights the importance of valuing and sharing the many voices that make up Afro-Brazilian culture.