Quilombo of Acupé

In the Quilombo of Acupé, Capoeira classes for underprivileged people and street children are both practical and theoretical, always emphasizing the playful side of Capoeira. These classes incorporate elements essential for education and the development of the children’s physical, mental, and moral abilities.

Capoeira enhances motor skills, self-confidence, cultural awareness, and social integration. Through Capoeira, children interact with people from different social classes, learning that everyone is equal. In the Capoeira roda, everyone wears the same uniform, and it’s impossible to distinguish between experts and beginners.

For many, Capoeira is a profession, an escape, and a shelter from drugs and the streets. Educators observe that children who participate in Capoeira become more interested in their studies and less inclined towards drugs, understanding that to be a capoeirista, one must study and work hard.

Contrary to some beliefs, Capoeira does not make children more aggressive. It helps them expend their energy positively, reducing street fights. Their communication skills improve, and they develop a sense of equality with their peers. Shy children become expressive, while hyperactive ones become more relaxed. They learn to work with each other rather than against each other.

The People of Acupé and How Capoeira Helps Them

Capoeira was born from the struggle of an oppressed people for freedom. Historically, it has been associated with socially rejected groups striving to affirm their identity, rights, and cultural values.

This history gives Capoeira immense potential for inclusion, bringing together men and women of all origins, ages, faiths, incomes, and cultural backgrounds in the roda. To the beat of the berimbau, they become citizens of the world, working towards improving their quality of life and promoting social justice.

The Origin of Capoeira

The origin of the word “capoeira” is as mysterious as the art itself, with three possible definitions and etymologies: Tupi-Guarani, Portuguese, and African.

Tupi-Guarani: "Nascent underbrush growing on an area of recently cleared scrubland," from caá (underbrush) + coêra, poêra, or puêra (indicating that the current underbrush is different from the past).

Slaves played Capoeira in the scrubland, using it to defeat slave hunters.

Portuguese: "Big basket or cage in which capons and other birds are kept," from capão (capon) + the suffix eira. Slaves selling birds at the market would play Capoeira to pass the time.

African: From the Kikongo word kipula or kipura, referring to sweeping ground movements in martial arts. Capoeira incorporates many such movements.

Is Capoeira African or Brazilian?

Capoeira is both African and Brazilian. Its roots are African, but it grew and flourished in Brazil. The art evolved from various African traditions and rituals, incorporating African musical instruments, rhythms, and movements.

However, it developed uniquely in Brazil, with Portuguese songs and Brazilian styles like Capoeira regional, created by Mestre Bimba. Thus, Capoeira is best described as "African-Brazilian."

Capoeira’s Main Philosophies

Capoeira is guided by several philosophies that influence its movements, music, and rituals:

Interaction: Capoeira is a jogo (game), ranging from playful to competitive. It’s a physical conversation, with players exchanging "questions" and "answers."

Movement and Versatility: Capoeiristas value constant movement, attacking and defending from any position. The ginga, a fluid swinging movement, is central.

Deception and Trickery: Cleverness is prized, with strategies to mislead opponents.

Indirect Resistance: Rooted in survival against oppression, Capoeira teaches creative ways to overcome stronger forces.

Capoeira’s Relationship to Religion and Spirituality

Capoeiristas are not required to practice a specific religion. Capoeira has loose connections to candomblé (an African religion) and Catholicism, reflected in its songs. African slaves in Brazil practiced their religion secretly alongside imposed Catholicism, blending the two.

The Role of Music in Capoeira

Music is essential in Capoeira, providing energy, directing game style, and transmitting knowledge. Instrument rhythms guide the game's pace, while songs comment on the action and give instructions. Capoeira songs are a rich oral tradition, expressing history, philosophy, and wisdom.

The Figure of the “Mestre”

A Mestre in Capoeira is a guide and symbol, responsible for the art and its place in society. They work for Capoeira's benefit, respecting its hierarchy and philosophy.

Becoming a Mestre requires years of dedication, humility, and commitment to teaching and preserving Capoeira’s traditions and values.

Capoeira and Freedom

Capoeiristas are diverse individuals united by a desire for freedom. Capoeira, an art created by the oppressed, resists institutionalization, valuing individuality and community.

It cannot be limited by formal organizations or monopolized. Capoeira thrives on freedom, creativity, and the spirit of resistance against oppressive systems.