Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art or, respectively, a martial dance whose origins are usually traced back to African NíGolo (“zebra dance”). Capoeira’s contents are marked by three elements: Fight, music, and the “roda” (Portuguese for “circle”), comprised of capoeiristas and (originally) the musicians. In the roda, two capoeiristas always meet. The dance techniques sport a very great portion of flexibility: There are a number of swivel kicks, inverted kicks and acrobatics. Porquinho, originally from Brazil, holding the coveted title of capoeira mestre, has been teaching capoeira for more than 20 years. In his classes for children and youths, there is a special emphasis on the playful and acrobatic aspects of this martial dance.
Capoeira is very versatile because it unites acrobatics, martial arts, rhythm, responsiveness, improvisation and creativity. A player is in constant motion: For one, because the basic step is already a rocking step (the ginga) and also because there are a lot of squats and acrobatic movements (cartwheels, headstands) performed.
