Retour au Carnaval, "Caboclo-do-lança"

The caboclos-do-lanca, of the maracatu rural in the northeastern state of Pernambuco, dance and move very quickly in a complex pattern, swinging their huge lance in front of them to clear the path. The flower in their mouth symbolizes their connection with nature, and to get in the right frame of mind to carry the 40kg of bells and sequins throughout four full days and nights of Carnaval in the summertime Brazilian heat.