On the evening of 5 October 2025, Sala São Paulo hosted a memorable encounter between cinema and music, marking the official launch of the UK/Brazil Season of Culture. In partnership with the 49th São Paulo International Film Festival, the event celebrated the artistic union between the two nations with a free screening of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic The Lodger (1927) — the first masterpiece by the British master of suspense.
“Let this evening be the beginning of many encounters that remind us why culture matters: as our most powerful way to connect, to imagine, and to find joy together,” said Scott McDonald, CEO of the British Council, who travelled to Brazil especially for the occasion.
The audience, almost 1000 people surrounded by the majestic architecture of Sala São Paulo, watched in awe as the Brasil Jazz Sinfônica orchestra performed the soundtrack live, creating a breathtaking atmosphere. It was as if time had stood still, allowing everyone to immerse themselves in Hitchcock’s shadowy London, guided by each note and every carefully orchestrated silence.
This symbolic moment inaugurated a unique cultural journey that will continue until June 2026, featuring over 100 projects across Brazil’s five regions and throughout the United Kingdom. The programme — diverse, accessible and vibrant — embraces urgent themes such as the climate emergency, representation, and joy as a collective force.
A result of the partnership between the British Council and Instituto Guimarães Rosa (IGR), the UK/Brazil Season of Culture not only celebrates creativity but also builds lasting bridges between artists, institutions and diverse audiences. In 2025, Brazil and the United Kingdom commemorate 200 years of diplomatic relations.
“This evening marks a moment of celebration between two countries that uphold democracy, fight against racism and social inequality, and cherish universal values of humanity, culture and the defence of human rights,” emphasised Ambassador Marco Antonio Nakata, Director of Instituto Guimarães Rosa.
The event also welcomed distinguished guests, including Márcio Tavares, Executive Secretary of Brazil’s Ministry of Culture; Jonathan Knott, UK Consul General in São Paulo; Renata de Almeida, Director of the São Paulo International Film Festival; and television presenter Serginho Groisman.
“Culture plays a fundamental role in bringing people together and transforming narratives. The Brazil–UK Cultural Season is inspired by this spirit of collaboration, diversity and mutual trust,” concluded Tom Birtwistle, Director of the British Council in Brazil.
The combination of music performed by Brazilian talents and a classic Hitchcock film marked the beginning of a promising season. And those who were present know: it was only the start of something truly special.
Cultural exchanges between the two nations
To encourage cultural exchange and broaden the geographical reach of the programme, the British Council and IGR launched an international open call in 2024, inviting Brazilian and British institutions to submit joint project proposals. A key selection criterion was bilateral collaboration, with each initiative involving at least one organisation from each country. Ten proposals were selected for their strong potential for impact and established presence in their fields.
Among the participating partners are renowned institutions such as the British Museum, British Film Institute, Science Museum, Museu do Amanhã, Museu das Amazônias, Sesc São Paulo, Fundação Padre Anchieta, Julie’s Bicycle, Pivô Arte e Pesquisa, and the Amazônia Mapping Festival, among others.
Further details about the programme and upcoming events are available at ukbrseason.uk. Sign up to our newsletter to receive updates on the cultural programme.