Capoeira is a Brazilian cultural experience/martial art created by African slaves in Brazil as a form of self-defense and cultural preservation against the oppressive slave owners.  It is ?played? in a roda (circle) by two capoeiristas who exchange a spontaneous combination of kicks, offensive moves, acrobatics and floor maneuvers. While the capoeiristas in the center of the roda (circle) engage in a dynamic and intriguing ?conversation,? others forming the roda sing in chorus and clap to the rhythm played on the berimbau, the stringed bow-like instrument that leads the roda.  The atabaque, pandeiro and agog? accompany the berimbau.

Capoeira was illegal for many years until Manuel dos Reis Machado, better known as Mestre Bimba, succeeded in gaining legality for the art and opened the first capoeira academy in Salvador, in the state of Bahia.  Today, there are numerous capoeira schools throughout Brazil, many of which have branches in various countries worldwide.

Raizes do Brasil Capoeira was founded in 1980 by Mestre Ralil Salom?o, in Bras?lia, Brazil. Mestre Papiba began training with Mestre Ralil at the age of 16, and continued to train with him until coming to the U.S. in 1991.  He arrived in Santa Cruz in 1992 where he began his own chapter of the school.  Raizes do Brazil Capoeira, Santa Cruz now offers classes five days a week for adults, teens and children.  

Raizes do Brasil is also available for private classes, educational shows and community and corporate performances.  Call 423-7536 or email to discuss your performance needs.