Learn about history, music, physical expression, dance, self-defense and even a new language with Capoeira, the foremost Afro-Brazilian cultural expression recognized as UNESCO’s world heritage. This workshop will give you the opportunity to understand Capoeira as a symbol of resistance, freedom and community not only in Brazil, but the world over, while having fun with other fellow travelers.
LEARN THE HISTORY
Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian expression that has been developed since the colonial times as a form of cultural resistance through dance, music, rhythm, and tradition. Today it is also recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
We will discuss its origins, theories and current understanding of this art form.
LEARN THE GAME
Using our bodies, we will create a moment of dialogue between two people by learning the basic movements and reactions of escape and attack within the capoeira stance ginga, always following the rhythm of music.
You will discover why we call it “the art of escaping and fighting with a smile on your face.”
LEARN THE MUSIC
The ritualistic roots that have persisted in Afro-Brazilian culture make capoeira look like a dance. Ancient rhythms and instruments play while participants sing, creating Axé, the sacred energy that makes it all happen.
You will learn some basic Portuguese to sing in company of traditional instruments like berimbaus, pandeiros and drums.
OBJECTIVE
Put together a “Roda de Capoeira”
Capoeira is a game about collective connection where two participants challenge each other for fun and not for competition while the rest of the players create the ambience to keep the flow of this game by singing and playing music.
Our objective will be to create a circle or Roda, the quintessential moment of Capoeira, by learning reactions, movements, rhythms, songs and understanding how they work together as a cultural expression and a form of art.
ABOUT THE CAPOEIRA PROFESSIONAL
Juanjo Gonzalez has worked for Free Walker Tours since 2015. First as a guide in Rio de Janeiro and then in Paraty where he was in charge of all the tours for almost 2 years.
He is a scholar of Brazilian History from the point of view of Capoeira, training and also running an academic research about it for more than 10 years. This workshop is one of the several projects he has developed as a result of his studies.
