1.
GV Huge birds suspended above street as decorations, PAN DOWN TO advancing procession
0.18

2.
GV OF Float ZOOM IN TO girls dancing on float.
0.24

3.
PAN UP FROM Feet TO girls dancing.
0.30

4.
GV Men dancing ZOOM IN TO CU OF dancers' face.
0.37

5.
GV Float with girls dancing on top. (2 SHOTS)
0.45

6.
GV Balloons PAN DOWN TO float.
0.53

7.
GV Woman in costume, PAN TO others.
1.02

8.
GV INTERIOR Men in evening dress dancing Samba PAN TO woman in long dress.
1.15

9.
GVs People dancing in gold and white costumes. (2 SHOTS)
1.33

10.
GV People dancing in procession, ZOOM IN TO MEDIUM SHOT.
1.42

11.
PAN UP FROM Float TO dancers.
1.49




Initials JS





Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: INTRODUCTION: One of the world's most extravagant spectacles, the Rio de Janeiro carnival, exploded into life on Sunday (1 March). It was a day the Brazilia's had been waiting for, and they flocked onto the streets for three days of dancing, singing and revelry, all to the relentless beat of the Samba.

SYNOPSIS: As always, Rio spared no expense in providing the city with elaborate decorations. But it was the processions that really mattered ... along the Brazil's generous share of beautiful girls.

The Samba parade is one of the highlights. Members of Rio's many Samba schools traditionally parade down the city's main streets, dancing all the way. They wear the colours of their schools, and show off their skill to anyone who will watch.

Rio has had its annual carnival for more than three-hundred years. Originally it marked the restoration of Portugal's monarchy. But these days it gives the people a chance to enjoy themselves before the austere period of Lent. And enjoy themselves they do.

During the procession the samba groups wind through the streets to the accompaniment of frenzied clapping and cheering. To help the festive spirit along, revellers drink the inevitable bottles of rum or the local cane alcohol.

The three-day carnival is such a tourist draw that it is subsidised by millions of dollars. But for the Brazilians themselves, for whom the money is apparently unimportant -it's the fun that counts.