On Saturday 10th September, a huge electronic dance party was organized in Rio de Janeiro to raise money for local charities. ‘HeartBeatz’ was held at Alto Vidigal, a popular outdoor terraced location at the top of the Vidigal favela which boasts stunning views over Rio. The party was organised by a German couple named Sebastian and Nora and the Favela Phoenix charity creator Jody King. They attracted the talent of heavyweight international DJ/violinist Seth Schwarz to perform at the event. The deal was that if you bring 1kg of non-perishable food the entry is made cheaper. All money made on the door went to 2 charities, Favela Phoenix in Rocinha and Educate The Favela, which is based in Complexo Do Alemao. The party was a huge success, attracting 400 party people who between them donated over 100 kilos of food to be distributed to poor families in the Vidigal favela. DJs Priscila Sousa (Brazil), Favela Phoenix’s own Jody King (England) and Seth Schwarz (Germany) provided the Deep and Progressive House music which kept people dancing until 6:30 in the morning after a beautiful sunrise witnessed from the Alto Vidigal terraces. All in all R$ 5,364 was raised to be distributed evenly between Favela Phoenix and Educate The Favela. Such was the popularity of the event that many revellers have been calling for another one to be organised! The creators have agreed that it would be silly not to do it again, given the popularity and, ultimately, how much it is helping charities in Rio’s poorest communities. So this could be the start of something regular and very special in Rio! A huge thank you to Sebastian and Nora who made it all possible with their tireless hard work and their financial support to pull off a huge event and commitment to such an incredible cause! Here’s to the next one!
 The "sunrise" crowd |  Sebastian and Nora with gifted food |
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