Description

Fundição Progresso, located in Rio de Janeiro's historic Lapa neighborhood, is a prominent cultural center housed in a former iron foundry built in 1881. Originally a factory producing safes, stoves, and other ironworks, the building was decommissioned in the 1970s and faced demolition. In 1982, a group of cultural activists, including Perfeito Fortuna, intervened to preserve the site, transforming it into a vibrant hub for artistic and cultural expression. Today, Fundição Progresso stands as one of Brazil's largest independent cultural centres, hosting a diverse array of events and fostering community engagement through art, education, and environmental initiatives. 

The centre is home to several resident artistic groups, such as the Orquestra Petrobras Sinfônica, Intrépida Trupe, Teatro de Anônimo, and Armazém Companhia de Teatro. These groups contribute to a dynamic schedule of performances and workshops spanning music, theater, dance, and circus arts. Fundição Progresso also plays a significant role in Rio's Carnival celebrations, organizing events like the Concurso Nacional de Marchinhas Carnavalescas, which has become a staple in the city's cultural calendar. citeturn0search1 Additionally, the center offers various courses and workshops in disciplines such as dance, music, and theater, fostering artistic development within the community. 

Beyond its cultural offerings, Fundição Progresso is committed to environmental sustainability and education. The Canto das Flores, a rooftop garden managed by the Organicidade collective, serves as a laboratory for urban agriculture and hosts events like Plante Rio, promoting agroecological practices and environmental awareness. The center also implements zero-waste policies, recycling approximately eight tons of waste annually through partnerships with local cooperatives. citeturn0search8 Through these initiatives, Fundição Progresso exemplifies a holistic approach to community development, integrating art, culture, education, and environmental stewardship.

Location
  • Av. das Américas, 3900 - Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22640-102, Brazil

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