Capoeira Eastside

Capoeira is a unique Brazilian art form that blends elements of martial arts, dance, acrobatics, music, and culture into a dynamic and expressive practice. It originated during the colonial era in Brazil, created by Afro-Brazilian slaves as a form of self-defense disguised as dance. The art was developed as a means of survival for escaped slaves, who used rhythmic movements and music to hide their combat techniques from colonial agents (capitães-do-mato) tasked with capturing runaways. This allowed them to practice fighting without arousing suspicion, as any detected resistance could result in severe punishment or death.