Portuguese Song And Dance, Sunday

At The Homesteads Of Newtown

The Homesteads of Newtown will host a free public performance by the folk song and dance group Portugal Canta e Dança on Sunday, November 4, at 3 pm.

The group’s performances represent various regions of Portugal and its islands. Its uniforms represent the wine region in Portugal, known as Duoro, with one pair of dancers dressed in the traditional uniform of the Island of Saint Michael in the Azores.

The group was founded in October 1996 in Danbury to give an opportunity to young adults to learn and grow in the Portuguese heritage and culture. Since its first performance, Portugal Canta e Dança has since had opportunities to participate in festivals in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Canada.

Under director Manuel Cipriano, the group has also presented shows in its homeland, with performances in Lisbon, Lousã, Famalicão, Póvoa da Rainha, and its sister city, Gouveia. Upon returning from Portugal, the group participated in a contest in Taunton, Mass., and returned to Danbury with a first place trophy for its talent and efforts.

The performance on Sunday is suitable for all ages. The Homesteads is at 166 Mt Pleasant Road/Route 6 in Newtown. Call 426-8118 for additional information.