Porta-bandeira is the name of the lady in charge of bearing the samba school flag. Her companion is known as mestre-sala. This couple plays a very important role in the competition. They are one of the features rated by the judges, and a poor performance could jeopardize the whole score.

Dressed in very heavy and luxurious costumes, the porta-bandeira has to make sure, among other things, that the flag does not get rolled around the pole while she dances. The mestre-sala is always by her side, doing the most incredible samba steps you will ever see. Every now and then they stop to greet the audience. These photo sequences will give you some idea of the action!