BCS History

1940-1942 - Carioca Cocktail

October 1941 saw the British Red Cross partner the Brazilian Red Cross in a major fun- and fund-raising effort entitled the Carioca Cocktail. The opening scene, featuring 150 members of the community, transformed the stage of the Theatro Municipal into a replica of Piccadilly Circus.

Walt Disney had recently passed through the city and his contribution was the cover of the programme. Although the green parrot Zé Carioca, (or Joe Carioca as he is also known) would only make his film debut a year later, along with his pal Donald Duck in the 1942 Saludos Amigos, here he is on the cover of the programme, in an early form. A maiden performance by the cheeky green parrot who’s always got most of the answers, and all of the charm. So like a carioca.

40s: After the war - Remembrance Day

After the war, strong bonds had been formed within the united British community in Rio: links of friendship, shared relief, and grief for those who would not return. This bond is renewed annually at the Remembrance Day Service in Christ Church, when the names of those lost in both wars are read out and recalled, briefly, home to Rio.

50s - The Brazil Herald

Over the course of 30 years, the Brazil Herald provided the Society with daily news of Bridge Teas, forthcoming Players’ productions, and the usual hatched, matched and dispatched notices.

1954 - QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

“On the occasion of the official birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II The British Ambassador and Lady Thompson cordially invite members of the British and Commonwealth Communities from 6:30pm to 8:30pm on June 10 at the British Embassy, Rua São Clemente, 360.”

1968 - T.V. IS A SOCIAL MENACE

The May debate was professionally run by the British Council; the Motion, “T.V. is a Social Menace” was carried by a majority of one vote, which indicates how well the leading speakers defended their points of view.

1968 - QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

A Dance was to have been held after the Ambassador’s reception on the occasion of the Queen’s birthday, but had to be cancelled due to the four days of mourning following the tragic death of Senator Robert Kennedy. The financial loss was negligible, but one good lady, preparing refreshments for the evening was caught with four dozen hard-boiled eggs.

1968 - COMMONWEALTH SPORTS DAY

Held at the Rio Cricket Club, followed by a Cricket Match between teams of the Commonwealth Diplomatic Missions and the rest of the Community. The locals won, and took home the Lady Russell Cup, presented by the lady herself, attended by H.E. Sir John Russell and their daughter Georgiana.

1968 - VISIT OF HM THE QUEEN

Reception at the Yacht Club (I.C.R.J.) and Her Majesty attended the Remembrance Day Service the next day. The purpose of the visit was the symbolic inauguration of work on the Niteroi Bridge.

1970 - NITEroi Chamber Choir

Conducted by Maestro Roberto Ricardo Duarte, sings at the Church Hall. There were 22 voices; one of whose was Meridan Towersey, who taught singing at the British school.

1971 - BCS Cabaret Supper

The last event organised by Robert Goodban. Buffet marvellous, arranged by Chris Nichol, Chris Hieatt with Lottie Halcrow and her committee.

1971 - Hospitality to Ships HMS Endurance

During the War, “entertaining the Navy” was a simple and much-appreciated way in which the community could contribute to the war effort. The tradition continued for many years, with locals offering hospitality of all kinds to visiting ships, the crews of which often reciprocated with a cocktail on board.

1971 - BENEFIT PERFORMANCE

The Teatrinho Arena Clube de Artes, in Copacabana, was reopened with the launch of the show “Um Mais Um é Igual a Dois”, based on John Mortimer’s play “The Dock Brief”. Translated by Ewa Procter and directed by John Procter, this performance benefitted the British & Commonwealth Society and starred Grande Otelo and Manuel Pêra.

1972 - QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

A dance was held at the Church Hall after Ambassador and Lady’s Hunt’s reception in honour of the Queen’s Birthday.

1973 - Farewell to the Ambassador

A farewell party for Sir David and Lady Hunt was given by the BCS on July 18. “Salgadinhos were provided for an estimated attendance of 200 members (7 salgadinhos p/head), but everything was eaten by about 120 members (11.6 salgadinhos p/head). Accounts show: Salgadinhos (1,400 at Cr$ 0.36 each: Cr$ 504,00. Dip (2 bottles of mayo, CR$6,25 ea., 2 tins Nestlé cream: Cr$2,48 ea., 1 bottle Savora mustard: Cr$4,80. Total Cr$22,26. 6 maids at Cr$25 ea., 2 at Cr$20 ea., total Cr$1140,00. Flowers: Cr$60,00. Tip for João: Cr$30.”

1974 - THE PLAYERS

25th Anniversary Fancy Dress Ball – held at the Community Hall. Founder member Phoebe Freeland M.B.E. was honoured and gave out the prizes for best costumes, one of which went to The British School’s headmaster, John Lewis, for “the Bishop’s candlesticks”.

1974 - The BCS Sports Day

Took place at the Niteroi Cricket Club on Saturday, August 3rd. It was attended by approximately 100 children and 50 adults, the attendance being far less than last year, despite the fact that many children were out from England on holiday. It was easier to get to Niteroi this year because of the bridge. Expenses incurred amounted to Cr$922,60 – these included flowers for Mrs. Pearce (wife of the president of the Club) red ribbon for the finishing line, safety pins, medals, 2 bottles of rum and 2 bottles of gin for the mothers’ and fathers’ races, both of which were 100 yards flat race. (Heather Liddle, Chair of Public Relations and Social Activities.)

1974 - THE LORD JIM PUB

Upon retirement from British Caledonian, Jim and Annie Phillips open the “authentically British” pub in Ipanema.

1974 - CHRISTMAS “AT HOME”

“The British and Commonwealth Society of Ro de Janeiro extends an open invitation to all British newcomers to Rio to meet older residents and make contact with Community life at an “At Home”, to be held on Wednesday, December 4th, 1974 at the Community Hall.

1975 - Royal Navy Visit

“An estimate has been obtained for band and food, based on a minimum of 250 people, (…) that would total Cr$12,500, plus hire of the Hall Cr$800, plus tips for Hall servants Cr$200. However, in view of the large donations made by the BCS to the Establishment of Christ Church (i.e. Chairs, Cr$9,000,00 and painting, Cr$4.000,00) the Committee feels that the Hall should be loaned and not rented to the Society on this occasion. Considering the difficulty of persuading the Community to attend such functions the Committee is of the opinion that entrance should be free and that the Society should stand the expense (The General Fund would be used for the end it was originally intended – to entertain H.M. Navy on its visits to Rio.”

1975 - BCS SAMBA

The Escola de Samba Vila Isabel invites the BCS to an evening of samba devoted to England. HMCG Alan Munro was among those who went.

1975 - QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

The Embassy was in the process of moving to Brasilia, and there was therefore no possibility of using this by now traditional venue for the Society’s event. It was held at RG99. “The Rumanian violinists played for 45 spellbinding minutes and even managed to make us forget we were in the Community Hall.”

1975 - HMS Endurance Visit

“Captain N. Bearne, R.N. thanks the community for the thoroughly enjoyable party. Accompanying the letter is a handsome wooden plaque, bearing the emblem of the ship, a seagull, or is it an albatross, flying over the white wastes of the Antarctic. The plaque now hangs proudly in this office (to be seen when you come to pay your subscription).”

1976 - WINE & CHEESE PARTY

The catering was for 23 lbs. of Stilton, 25 lbs. of Cheddar, 35 packets of Camembert and 20 lbs. of Roquefort, 40 French loaves, 24 packets crackers, 14 lbs. of butter, which British Caledonian worked out as sufficient for 200 people

1976 - QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

The QBP was attended by some 250 people … “a boisterous success, thanks chiefly to the rather highly spiced entertainment provided by The Players. However, there may have been some who, like the writer of this letter, felt that to parody the national anthem on the Queen’s birthday was perhaps carrying informality a little far.”

1976 - BCS sponsoring the arts

Sir Michael Redgrave became the BCS’s first venture into sponsoring the arts; he played “Shakespeare’s People” to packed audiences at the Teatro João Caetano on both nights.

“Though poorly staged, with Sir Michael somewhat diminished in power, that particular quality of pathos that has always characterised his acting struck one to the heart.”

1977 - BCS AT CARNIVAL

The Escola de Samba Império Serrano invites BCS members to “desfilar” in their parade on Av. Pres. Vargas. Their theme was “Brazil, cradle of immigrants.”

1977 - Lunch to welcome H.M. Ambassador

Mr. Norman Statham, C.M.G., C.V.O. Present: Mr. Boyadjeff, Mr. Corrie, Mr. Truman, Mr. McQuade, Mrs. Phillips, H.E., Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Statham, Mr. Fitzpatrick, Mr. Hieatt, Miss Davy, Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Munro, Mr. Colson, Mr. Rutherford, Mr. Porter, Mrs. De Kerekrethy, Mr. Bellers, Mr. Derrick-Jehu, Mrs. McQuade, Mr. Holmes, Mrs. Whalin, Rev. Blankley, Mr. Goldsmith, Mr. Down, Mrs. Wilson, Mrs. Munro, Mrs. Holland

1977 - BCS entertains the Navy

Crewmembers from a total of nine ships and three auxiliary vessels entertained and were entertained at RG99. “After dinner the Navy will put on a display of Morris Dancing.” BCS holds a churrasco, proceeds of which were Cr$13,025.00. Chairman John Lewis sums it up: “If we deduct from this total the sum of Cr$4,650.00 which you should pay by cheque to Swift Armour for the meat (filet mignon: 40kgs, linguiça churrasquita 32.5kgs) and Cr$250.00 payable to Mr. Henry McQuade, we are left with a profit of Cr$8,125.00 which is particularly encouraging in view of the quantity of free beer consumed.”

1977 - QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

QBP and Silver Jubilee Celebration. Champagne toast proposed by HMCG Alan Munro, a light buffet supper followed. Then The Players, directed by David Briggs, presented “Crowning Glory”. (Mara de Kerekrethy points out in her newsletter that this is the second Royal Silver Jubilee of the century, the last being that of the Queen’s grandfather, King George V, who reigned exactly 25 years.) A Service of Thanksgiving was held at Christ Church.

1977 - The 172nd Anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar

The BCS joins forces with the Royal Society of St. George for a Pub Night in the Community Hall. On the menu: imported sausages and baked beans with mashed potatoes, followed by trifle.

1978 - H.R.H. The Prince of Wales’ VISIT

Instructions for the walkabout at RG 99. Dress: lounge suit (medals and decorations will not be worn); Day Dress (hat and gloves not required). Conversations with HRH: H.R.H. should be allowed to start any conversation. Smoking: It is not considered proper to smoke whilst in conversation with H.R.H. Some 250 handpicked members of the community were invited. On a list of some 60 people, entitled “People who should be invited in their own right, if they do not appear on company lists” there were an awful lot of letters and decorations. Charles Reade and Teddy Rigby were near the top, each with their C.B.E. and D.F.C. Tony Wellington heaved in with D.S.O., O.B.E. and D.F.C. Ten others on the list were O.B.E., four were M.B.E. and Margaret Mee and Stan Haynes were also Carioca Honorário. Additionally, a new-ish carioca was invited, as he’d been a page at the Coronation, and a merchant banker because his sister was Lady-in-Waiting to Princess Anne. The Church was represented by the Reverends Roger Blankley and 100-year old Harold Cook. Back on earth, the Head Boy and Head Girl of the British school were also on the list.

1979 - GILBERT & SULLIVAN REVIVAL

The Players, under the direction of Martin Hester and David Evans, with a 25-piece orchestra, presents HMS Pinafore at the Community Hall. Seen by around 2000 people over a 7-night run.

1981 - LADY WINDERMERE’S FAN

Directed by Margaret Tomkins at the Community Hall. In order to accommodate a glittering ballroom scene and the set designed by Ian Hurley, an apron was built out in front of the stage.

1981 - ROYAL WEDDING PARTY

At the Community Hall to celebrate Prince Charles’ marriage to Lady Diana Spencer. Attended by 400 people.

1981 - THE GONDOLIERS

The SCM (Sociedade de Comédia Musical) is formed to produce this show, directed by Martin Hester, which ran for 10 nights at the BNH Theatre. It featured professional, semi-professional and amateur soloists, a chorus of 40 voices and an orchestra, all “…backed by two well-known businesses that only back winners: the Bank of London and Souza Cruz”.

1982 - WORLD CUP

Special television relay of Brazil/Scotland football match at Community Hall.

1987 - The RioLife years

For the next 6 years, the RioLife editorials keep all the elements of the international community in Rio in touch with each other, and help its readers enjoy Rio to the full.

1987 - Commonwealth Day Dance

at the Rio Palace Hotel. Speaker Lord Mayor of London, Sir David Rowe-Ham, GBE. D.Litt. Black tie.

1988 - Commonwealth Dinner

at the Rio Palace Hotel honours Britain-Australia Bicentenary, with Australian Ambassador Warwick Weemaes as Guest of Honour. Also attending, Mr. Wilfred Sheik Naimool, Ambassador for Trinidad and Tobago.

1989 - COMMONWEALTH DAY

No dinner held, as it had been for two preceding years, “because of the difficulty anticipated in selling tickets at high prices in lean times”. Instead a Barbeque was held at Pedra Negra, The British School’s sítio in Jacarépaguá.

1990 - BCS Golden Jubilee Gala

Dinner and Dance in the Golden Room of the Copacabana Palace. Dancing to live music of Terra Molhada. Message from HM The Queen:

“It was with much pleasure that I learned from Mr Christopher Hieatt’s message of loyal greetings that the British and Commonwealth Society of Rio de Janeiro was this year celebrating its fiftieth anniversary with a Jubilee Ball on March 23. I should like to congratulate the members of the Society on this memorable event and to extend to you all my best wishes for a successful ball. I hope that the Commonwealth will continue to be so well supported in Rio de Janeiro for many years to come.”

1990 - QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

Held later than usual, so as not to clash with the Brazil match in the World Cup. Free wine and canapés, cash bar. “Not restricted to BCS community, all nationalities are welcome, even those who may have revolted, seceded or otherwise toyed with the Empire at one time or another.”

1990 - HMS Avenger

The first British warship to visit Rio since 1982, is expected. Offers of hospitality invited.

1990 - BCS vs. AmSoc Sports Challenge

The final was held at the Escola Americana sports field. EA kindly waived their no-alcohol policy.

1990 - JOINT CHRISTMAS PARTY

with the Royal British Legion.

1992 - BCS Christmas Bash

Including comedy, reindeers, Christmassy grub, gnome-throwing and much mirth and merriment. Price: $10 (booze not included).

1994 - The Umbrella

The Umbrella is launched – a publication covering news across all English-speaking societies. It was originally run by the BCS and the American Society and the inaugural team consisted of Michael Royster, Adam Reid and Marcia Fialho.

2002 - HM THE QUEEN’S GOLDEN JUBILEE YEAR

The Golden Jubilee of Elizabeth II was the international celebration held in 2002 marking the 50th anniversary of the accession of Queen Elizabeth II to the thrones of seven countries, upon the death of her father, King George VI, on 6 February 1952, and was intended by the Queen to be both a commemoration of her 50 years as monarch and an opportunity for her to officially and personally thank her people for their loyalty.

2002 - ST. GEORGE’S DAY TREASURE HUNT

This popular family event was held for the last time, starting in Lagoa and ending in Alto Leblon with an all-you-can-eat (and drink) churrasco lunch. All-inclusive tickets for an entire day’s worth of entertainment were just R$40 for adults -“Children under 5 and pet dragons go free.”

2002 - THE QUEEN’S GOLDEN JUBILEE

Huge celebrations took place all over the community and at RG99. The highlight was certainly the fête in the car park/playground, which was almost entirely covered by a huge red, white and blue marquee. All the community societies and organisations were present, including St. Andrew Society, Royal British Legion, Christ Church, HM Consulate General, the Margaret Mee Foundation, The British School Alumni and Students, the British Chamber of Commerce, British Council, British Tourist Authority and several charities. Ambassador Sir Roger Bone attended, as did the Banda dos Fusileiros Navais, and there were music and dance performances from British School children and from the Petrópolis Scottish Dancers. On the Sunday, there was a commemorative Jubilee service in Christ Church followed by lunch. All events benefitted from sponsorship from British stalwarts such at BP, GlaxoSmithKline, BG, Souza Cruz (B.A.T.), De La Rue, Rolls Royce, HSBC, Daniel & Co., and National Grid. Those were the days!

2003 - BCS on the Web

The BCS launches its website, sharing news and events of all the English-speaking societies.

2005 - 200th ANNIVERSARY OF TRAFALGAR

“An Evening of History, Strategy, Culture and Enjoyment”, with an illustrated talk by historian Kenneth Light, an impossible quiz and plenty of British spirit, such as Nelson’s Blood at the bar.

2008 - BI-CENTENARY OF THE ARRIVAL OF THE PORTUGUESE COURT

After nearly a decade of research and writing, BCS member and eminent historian Kenneth Light publishes his book on the Portuguese court’s arrival in Brazil. BCS hosts an illustrated talk by Ken and book signing of the Portuguese language edition, attended by the British and Portuguese Consuls General. The book’s cover featured the stunning painting by Geoff Hunt, R.S.M.A, commissioned by Light and was published in English in 2009 as The Saving of an Empire: The Journey of Portugal’s Court and Capital to Brazil, 1808.

2012 - THE QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE

Celebrated in true BCS style, with music, Scottish dancers, food, drinks and a raffle.

2014 - BRAZIL WORLD CUP

2016 - THE QUEEN’S 90TH BIRTHDAY

About 140 people attended a lunch to celebrate, with entertainment from the Brazilian Piper Band, the BCS Choir and other performers, including 10-year old William Dunn, who “left many in the audience reaching for their handkerchiefs with his performance of ‘Castle in the Clouds’, from Les Misérables.”
Chairman Philip Carruthers received a letter from Buckingham Palace in response to the card sent on behalf of the BCS, to wish Her Majesty a happy birthday:

“Dear Mr. Carruthers,
The Queen has asked me to convey her thanks for the message you have sent of behalf of the British and Commonwealth Society of Rio de Janeiro on the occasion of Her Majesty’s ninetieth birthday.
The Queen greatly appreciated your kind words and remembers her visit to Rio de Janeiro with great fondness. Her Majesty, in return, has asked me to send her warm good wishes to you and all concerned.
Yours sincerely,
Christopher Sandamas
Chief Clerk to The Queen”