Capoeira Angola

Capoeira Angola is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines dance movements, acrobatics, fighting, music, theatre, history and philosophy. The game (jogo) of capoeira takes place in a circle (roda), formed by the participants (capoeiristas). Within the roda, two capoeiristas launch into an array of attacks and counter attacks, which can be seen as a conversation of questions and answers. The capoeiristas that surround the dancers provide musical accompaniment, which includes playing musical instruments, handclapping, and singing in a call and response manner alternating between the leader of the roda (cantor) and the chorus. The training of capoeira includes flexibility, strength, acrobatic movements (cartwheel, handstand, etc.), coordination as well as singing and playing the traditional instruments of capoeira.

The game of Capoeira Angola is pure theatre. The players try to trick their opponents into doing things that leave them vulnerable (called mandinga). If the trick is successful the participants break out into laughter and smiles. The tricked player learns, however, to embrace the ideals of humility and respect. Capoeira Angola prepares one to deal with the realities of life in a creative and healthy manner.