Antonio Bivar’s play, directed by João Fonseca, runs at CCJF from March 6 to 29, exploring gender inequality and ageism.
A timeless portrait of resilience
The Brazilian theatre classic
“Cordélia Brasil”, by
Antonio Bivar, arrives at the
Centro Cultural Justiça Federal (CCJF) in downtown Rio de Janeiro as part of the
Women on Stage Festival. Directed by
João Fonseca, the production runs from
March 6 to 29, with shows on
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 7 p.m. The play combines
fantasy and realism to depict the exhaustion and courage of women living under social constraints. The piece has previously achieved sold-out success in Rio, including seasons at
Casa de Cultura Laura Alvim and
Firjan SESI Caxias.
Plot and themes
Set in a modest apartment in Rio, the story follows
Cordélia (Paula Goja), who, trapped between poverty and survival, begins to sell her body to support her indolent husband
Leônidas (Antonio Pina). The arrival of
Rico (Pedro Pedruzzi) disrupts the fragile dynamics of their relationship. Written in
1968, the text remains relevant as it examines
gender inequality and ageism, inviting audiences to question the persistence of misogyny and the internalized expectations women still face today.
Creative team and production
The show is produced by
Persona Produções in
coproduction with Alumbrar Cultural, featuring
set design by Nello Marrese,
lighting by Nina Balbi,
assistant direction by André Celant,
photography by Luís Teixeira, and
design by Marcela Negrão. Persona Produções has developed acclaimed theatrical works such as
“Os Analfabetos,” “Quero ser Regina,” and
“Lira dos vinte anos,” establishing itself as a consistent presence in Rio’s cultural scene.
Service
Play: Cordélia Brasil
Author: Antonio Bivar
Director: João Fonseca
Cast: Paula Goja, Antonio Pina, Pedro Pedruzzi
Dates: March 6–29
Time: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 7 p.m.
Venue: Centro Cultural Justiça Federal – Av. Rio Branco, 241, Rio de Janeiro
Tickets: R$40 (full) / R$20 (half) at
sympla.com.br
Duration: 75 minutes
Rating: 16+
Genre: Drama / Comedy
Instagram: @cordelia_brasil_
