June 17th, 2025

Third to sixth grade groups of Educación Básica Integrada (EBI, Primaria) attended a performance of Amazonia by the Argentinian company ArtSpot Theatre on 5 June. In two presentations at the imposing Graff Hall, a story set in the Brazilian rainforest was displayed with the magic of theatrical storytelling.

An Amazonian tribe lives, in the middle of the jungle, in harmony with nature. The tribe is led by Chief Mará, a wise and strong leader who protects their traditions. Ayla, her adventurous younger sister, is curious about the jungle’s mysteries. They are also accompanied by Kauê, a loyal and humorous companion whose resourcefulness often helps the tribe.

Their peaceful existence is interrupted by Lukas, a zealous researcher with a tablet. Lukas pretends to document the jungle’s natural wonders, but he is secretly surveying the land for a profitable tourism project orchestrated by his profit-driven employer.

As Lukas spends time with the tribe, his view begins to change. Ayla’s curiosity and the tribe’s deep connection to the land make him appreciate the jungle’s untouched beauty. However, his growing bond with the tribe is jeopardized when his deceit is discovered. Chief Mará confronts him, demanding an explanation for his secret activities, forcing the tribe to reconsider their hospitality in light of the threat he poses.

The situation intensifies when Lukas’s shrewd employer arrives with plans to destroy the forest for a large resort. Faced with the devastating consequences of his actions, Lukas must choose between his conscience and his ambition. The tribe, determined to protect their sacred home, gives him an ultimatum: join them in defending the jungle, or give in to the allure of progress and personal gain.

With this play, ArtSpot Theatre displayed the exuberance of the Amazon through the music, the songs, the theatrical scenery, and the costumes. The sounds and the lights (specially the night and the sunrise) of the rainforest were superbly recreated.

At the climax, the auditorium exploded in cheers and applause. The students took part and were thrilled at the end, at the triumph of caring for nature. They never came out to greet the audience at the end of the play. That is why some of the kids were annoyed.

Source: https://artspottheater.com/download-material-amazonia/

Credits: Centro de Recursos para el Aprendizaje (images); Mag. Gabriela Cabrera Castromán (texts)