Thursday in Rio offers reggae at Circo Voador, a career-spanning MPB show from Ana Carolina, samba-pop fusion with Alexandre Pires, a theatrical revival of Chico Buarque’s classic, and drag karaoke in Lapa. Here are the highlights.
Top Picks
Groundation – Circo Voador (Lapa)
Why: Legendary California reggae band brings their jazzy roots reggae back to Rio with the “Candle Burning” tour.
- Time: 21:00
- Tickets: Eventim
- Address: R. dos Arcos, s/n – Lapa
- Contact: +55 (21) 2533-0354
Ana Carolina – Qualistage (Barra da Tijuca)
Why: Celebrating 25 years with her new “25 Anas” tour, mixing classics with new songs from her latest EP.
- Time: 21:30
- Tickets: Qualistage
- Address: Av. Ayrton Senna, 3000 – Barra da Tijuca

Alexandre Pires – Espaço Hall (Barra)
Why: Samba-pop icon presents “Pagonejo Bão,” a mix of sertanejo and pagode for a 3-hour party set.
- Time: 21:30
- Tickets: Uhuu
- Address: Av. Ayrton Senna, 5850 – Barra da Tijuca
Gota D’Água In Concert – Teatro Fashion Mall (São Conrado)
Why: Chico Buarque’s samba-opera revived in a special anniversary concert with original cast members.
- Time: 20:00
- Tickets: Sympla
- Address: Estr. da Gávea, 899 – São Conrado
Dragokê – Experience Music (Lapa)
Why: A fun, inclusive drag karaoke party with live performances, DJs, and open mic vibes.
- Time: 19:00 (karaoke from 20:00)
- Tickets: At the door or via Experience Music
- Address: R. Riachuelo, 20 – Lapa
Also Notable
- Dandara Alves – Rio Scenarium, 22:30. Rising samba vocalist in vintage surroundings.
- Eliana Pittman canta Jorge Aragão – Teatro Rival, 19:30. Jazz-samba legend honors samba icon.
- Solteira, Inteira e Feliz – Teatro dos 4, 20:00. Comedy solo show about modern single life.
Times and prices may change — confirm on official ticket pages before heading out.
Rio de Janeiro Nightlife Guide for Thursday, September 19, 2025

