Under a highway overpass in Madureira, Rio de Janeiro, dance teacher Marcus Azevedo led a group of dancers through a routine set to classic R&B tracks. Despite the noise from passing vehicles and sirens, the dancers moved in unison, showcasing a style known as charme, which originated in the 1970s as a tribute to American soul and funk.
This area has long been a hub for charme enthusiasts, where daytime practice sessions transition into lively nighttime parties called “baile charme.” Azevedo, who has been dancing charme since childhood, described the location as a “magical place” filled with spiritual energy.
The charm scene is evolving, attracting a younger demographic eager to keep the tradition alive while infusing it with new elements. On a recent Saturday, a diverse group of participants gathered for a class led by Azevedo and other instructors, aiming to introduce more people to the dance form. Participants expressed the therapeutic nature of charme, with one dancer stating, “Charme is medicine, it has the power to cure anything.”
Charme's roots trace back to the 1970s and 1980s, when American music began to influence Rio’s outskirts, providing a source of pride and identity for local youth. The term “charme” became popularized by a DJ in the 1980s, and after the decline of Black social clubs in the 1990s, dancers moved to the Madureira overpass for their gatherings.
Following a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, charme is experiencing a resurgence. The dance incorporates elements of bossa nova, samba, and Brazilian funk, creating a distinctive style that reflects the local culture. Azevedo emphasized the uniqueness of Rio's dance scene, stating, “there is no place in the world that dances like we do.”
As the class progressed, participants practiced increasingly complex routines, blending traditional steps with modern influences. In the evening, the underpass transformed into a vibrant nightclub, attracting a mix of seasoned dancers and newcomers, all eager to showcase their skills.
For many younger dancers, the charme scene has become a representation of Black identity and culture in Rio’s working-class neighborhoods. Older participants shared their experiences with the younger generation, fostering a sense of community and continuity in the dance tradition.
As the night wore on, DJ Michell played a mix of classic and contemporary tracks, reflecting the evolution of charme into a more Brazilian form. Despite the late hour, some dancers, including a visitor from São Paulo, remained on the dance floor, unwilling to leave the vibrant atmosphere behind.