Thank you for visiting the Japanese Culture Center Capoeira page!
Capoeira is a unique Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines elements of self-defense, acrobatics, dance, music, and culture. It originated in Brazil during the colonial period when enslaved Africans were brought to the country.
Capoeira is characterized by its fluid and rhythmic movements, often performed in a circular pattern called the roda. Participants, called capoeiristas, engage in a game of strategy and skill, incorporating kicks, sweeps, flips, and acrobatics, all while maintaining a dialogue through music and singing.
The music in Capoeira is an essential component, with instruments such as the berimbau (a musical bow), pandeiro (a type of tambourine), atabaque (a hand drum), and other percussion instruments setting the rhythm and guiding the movements of the participants.
Beyond its physical aspects, Capoeira holds significant cultural and historical value, representing resistance, freedom, and community. It has evolved into a global art form practiced by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Whether practiced for self-expression, fitness, cultural appreciation, or self-defense, Capoeira offers a rich and dynamic experience that blends martial arts, dance, music, and camaraderie.
For more information regarding classes, please visit
https://capoeirabrasilchicago.com/
About the Instructors
In 2007, Jarvis Broom (Professor Brucutu) was invited to teach Capoeira workshops at the Japanese Culture Center (JCC) in Chicago. After several successful workshops, the students participating in the JCC Capoeira program asked Brucutu to officially lead the group under the banner of Grupo Capoeira Brasil (GCB).
In 2008, then Monitor Brucutu (blue/red cord) began leading the group under the supervision of Mestre Caxias of Grupo Capoeira Brasil. The group was officially recognized as part of Grupo Capoeira Brasil by Mestre Paulão Ceará, one of the organization’s co-founders.
Today, Grupo Capoeira Brasil Chicago is co-led by Professor Brucutu and Professora Pantera Negra, under the ongoing supervision of Mestre Mindinho.
Class Schedule and Cost
Please email for more information