"The Joy Block" is an award winning short film documentary.

Music has the capacity to bring people together from diverse backgrounds. In Portland, OR there is a thriving Samba community nurtured and cultivated by a diverse group of 30 community musicians and dancers known as BLOCO ALEGRIA, (THE JOY BLOCK) The band emulates the traditions of Rio de Janeiro where community bands on various city blocks frequently entertain. The band ranges in age from 20-70 and has varied professional backgrounds. The thing that has brought them together since 2011 to entertain and spread community is their love of the music. Together, as a collective they take the next step to produce their own show at the historic Star Theater.