What a night! Baile Tupi! wasn’t just a gig - it was a full-blown Brazilian dance party, and I already want to go again.

From the moment the music kicked in, the room was buzzing. It didn’t take long before people were up and moving - this wasn’t the kind of show where you just sit and watch. Oh no! The band made sure of that by inviting everyone onto the dance floor. A local Forró dance group led the way, showing off their moves and encouraging the rest of us to join in.

Even if you had no clue how to dance Forró (like me!), it didn’t matter. The music was so infectious that you just had to get up and go with the beat. At one point, I honestly felt like I’d been transported straight to Copacabana - Caipirinha in hand, soaking up the energy of a street festival.

The rhythms, the atmosphere, the sheer joy of it all - it was like a little Brazilian holiday without leaving Perth.

Emily Gelineau, the band’s frontwoman, was an absolute star. Not only is she ridiculously talented, but she was so friendly and welcoming. She even took the time to explain some Brazilian Portuguese terms in Aussie English, making sure we were all in on the fun.

It felt more like being part of a big, joyous celebration rather than just watching a performance. And the crowd? What a mix! Serious dancers, total newbies, people just out for a good time - and even a few kids clapping along, loving every second.

The whole atmosphere was just pure joy - smiles everywhere, feet moving, and not a single person sitting still.

If you ever get the chance to see Baile Tupi! — do it. It’s vibrant, it’s fun, and it’s impossible to leave without a massive grin on your face. I’d see it again in a heartbeat!