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://grupocapoeirabrasilbrucutu.com
About the Instructors
Paulo César da Silva Sousa, Mester Paulinho Sabia, one of the founders of Grupo Capoeira Brazil. He began practicing capoeira in the streets of Niterói.
In 1970, his father enrolled him in a group called Rio Antigo because he felt it was a bit dangerous for a 10-year-old boy to practice capoeira in the streets.
In 1972, he met Mestre Gato, who participated in a tournament in late 1973 and joined the Grupo Senzala where he remained until January 1989 when he along with Mestre Boneco and Mestre Paulao Ceara founded Capoeira Brazil.
Jarvis Broom, Instrutor Brucutu, has over 15 years of Capoeira experience. He began training capoeira at the age of 22 at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill under the supervision of Capoeira Brasil’s Mestre Caxias.
After completing his bachelor’s degree at UNC-CH, Instrutor Brucutu moved to Chicago where he started the Grupo Capoeira Brasil’s Chicago branch in 2008.
Instrutor Brucutu currently teaches and oversees the capoeira program at the Japanese Culture Center.
Class Schedule and Cost
Please email for more information