A GROUP of Brazilian artists is now in Canberra as part of the Centenary of Canberra Canberra-Brasilia exchange program.

The musical collective and band from Brasilia, Sistema Criolina, will, while here, take part in discussions about common obstacles and advantages artists face in planned capital cities, especially those needing to cater for youth culture.

Several acts from Canberra were given a rousing welcome at Brasilia’s international theatre festival CENA Contemporânea in August, and according to producer, Frank Madrid, the exchange program has helped the Centenary of Canberra reach a new international audience.

“Sistema Criolina will make its first appearance at Gorman House on October 10 at 6pm, giving artists a chance to meet with Canberrans, talk about their craft and perform a DJ set in the garden.”

Sistema Criolina will be joined at Gorman House by Shane Breynard, the director of the Canberra Museum and Gallery and ACT Historic Places, to discuss the cultural exchange between the two planned capitals and challenge the myth that these cities lack artistic activity.

The tomorrow, October 11, Sistema Criolina will present its latest project “Space Night Love Dance Laser” at The Street Theatre at 8pm as part of the “PuraVida” showcase, alongside Argentine musician Kevin Johansen.

Finally, the group will make an appearance at the Centenary of Canberra’s “Manuka Celebrates – Parties at the Shops” on October 12, before leaving for Sydney to perform at the Darling Harbour Fiesta Festival on Sunday.

Sistema Criolina, at Gorman House, 6pm today; at The Street Theatre at 8pm tomorrow, Oct 11; and “Manuka Celebrates – Parties at the Shops” on October 12.