WHAT IS CAPOEIRA?
To some, Capoeira looks like a fight; to others, a dance. So which is it?
Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art unlike more traditional combat systems. It combines rhythmic movement, acrobatics, attacks, evasions, strategy and music.
THE GAME INSIDE THE RODA
Two capoeiristas enter the roda and begin to play. They move around one another with circular, flowing movements—attacking, dodging and using feints as each tries to outsmart the other.
The movements are not random. Capoeiristas listen and respond to the rhythm of the instruments, the clapping and the singing of everyone gathered around the roda.
MUSIC GUIDES THE GAME
The berimbau is the central instrument of Capoeira. It sets the rhythm and mood of the roda, guiding how the players move, interact and develop the game.
ROOTS OF RESISTANCE
The origins and evolution of Capoeira remain a subject of debate. The most accepted explanation is that it developed among enslaved Africans in Brazil during the colonial period. Denied freedom and the right to defend themselves, they used movement, music and strategy as tools of resistance and survival.
Those who escaped formed self-governed communities called quilombos. The largest and most resilient was Quilombo dos Palmares, in northeastern Brazil. It became one of the strongest symbols of resistance to slavery.
Because many historical records were destroyed after the abolition of slavery, parts of Capoeira’s early history cannot be documented with certainty.
FROM PROHIBITION TO PRESERVATION
In 1890, Capoeira was outlawed in Brazil, and practitioners were persecuted by the police. Nevertheless, capoeiristas continued to practise and preserve the art underground, allowing its knowledge, music and traditions to survive across generations.
CAPOEIRA ANGOLA TODAY
Today, Capoeira Angola keeps this heritage alive through movement, strategy, malícia, music and respect for tradition. At Escola de Capoeira Amsterdam, these elements are taught as one complete art.
EXPERIENCE CAPOEIRA FOR YOURSELF
Join Professor da Lua for a free trial class and experience Capoeira Angola in Amsterdam.