Capoeira

Capoeira is a unique art form from Brazil. It looks like a mix of dance, martial arts, and acrobatics. Two people play together in a circle while others clap and sing. Capoeira is full of kicks, spins, and flips. It is beautiful to watch and fun to practice.

How Capoeira Works

Two players move together inside a circle called a roda. They kick, dodge, and flip near each other but try not to make contact. A special instrument called a berimbau sets the rhythm. Other people in the circle play instruments, sing, and clap along.

History of Capoeira

Capoeira was created by enslaved African people in Brazil hundreds of years ago. They disguised their fighting practice as a dance so their captors would not stop them. After slavery ended, capoeira spread throughout Brazil. Today it is practiced in over 150 countries around the world.

Fun Facts

• The berimbau is a one-string instrument that guides the speed of capoeira.
• Capoeira was once illegal in Brazil but is now a national treasure.
• Capoeira was named an Intangible Cultural Heritage by the United Nations in 2014.

Did You Know?

Capoeira was invented by enslaved people in Brazil who disguised their fighting practice as a dance!