This study contributes to the understanding of the first hierarchical stage of candomblé, denominated: abianato. Emphasizing the category of abiãs in the initiation process of this Afro-Brazilian religious modality, the novices themselves perceptions of the experience of abianato are revealed. In view of the spectacular character of candomblé public ceremonies, the performances of the abiãs are analyzed according to the perspective of performance anthropology, proposed by Richard Schechner. In this research, the period of the abianato is not perceived only as a merely sociological participation of the religious. On the contrary, it constitutes a fundamental ritual stage in the identity building of the candomblecista.