In 2018, “TePI – Theater and the indigenous peoples: gatherings of resistance” accomplished four gatherings and a theatrical play at Sesc Pompeia, open to the public, bringing a discussion on the relations between performing arts and indigenous peoples. The event debated the topic with representatives of the area and non-indigenous allies whose artistic and intellectual productions strengthen the importance of thinking about decolonizing the gaze and ways to prevent symbolic and colonial invisibility of the indigenous peoples nowadays.

During eight days of meeting, the “TePI – Theater and indigenous peoples” took place, in its first edition, in October 2018. The event brought 17 guests – among indigenous and non-indigenous allies, bringing together leaders, activists, artists, intellectuals, writers and performers.

Under the direction of Andreia Duarte and co-curated by Ailton Krenak, TePI arises with the acknowledgement that there’s research and contemporary theatrical production in Brazil related mostly to topics ruled by the indigenous people activism. They are accomplishments located in different areas of Brazil bringing a number of perspectives, cross-checking dialogues and possibilities of exchange. A scenario produced by indigenous artists, but also by non-indigenous ones who create involving socio-environmental matters and indigenous peoples’ needs and, likewise, through a collective authorship between indigenous and non-indigenous partners.

In this first edition, the curatorship was guided by the notion that theaters expand their concepts far beyond the stage as they appraise body and esthetical expression involvement, backed by experience. Places where it is possible to become aware of a poetic and political sense that beyond cultural matters, approach an alterity relation, with nature and the planet’s existence.

Within the scope of this discussion, “TePI – Theater and indigenous peoples” emerged as an artistic meeting that brought together indigenous people, scenic creators, theater and Brazilian ethnology researchers, proposing the presentation of shows and meetings that addressed discussions on representation in art, modes decolonized from the body and creation, but also about acts of resistance. The event invited participants to sing, dance, talk and perform as a way of re-existing the here and now.