General Info
Speak to anyone who has ever been a part of a Capoeira roda and you’ll see their eyes light up! Capoeira is not only a martial art, a dance and an art form steeped in Afro-Brazilian culture. Capoeira is a language, a form of self expression and an avenue which will help you to find a new freedom inside yourself. It’s also the perfect way to get to grips with a deep understanding of Brazilian culture.
WHAT YOU'LL GAIN FROM DOING A COURSE:
► An exciting, never-to-be-forgotten adventure into a different culture.
► New skills, more confidence, a greater understanding of a different culture, invaluable personal and professional development.
► An entry on your CV or résumé that will put you head and shoulders above most others in the job market
► And best of all ... an unforgettable experience!
Born of oppression and slavery in Brazil, the unique style of Capoeira brings beauty and power together, developing mental balance, physical conditioning, self-defense, music and a profound sense of art. The music dictates the way the game or jogo will be conducted.
Capoeira is a discipline that requires great flexibility, strength, rhythm and physical control based upon the principles of spontaneity, energy, interaction and trickery. Yet capoeira is also about freedom, the freedom to move, to interact, to communicate and to be, without limitations. Capoeira teaches you to about yourself and about life from its own unique perspective. Capoeira is extremely social and you will meet many interesting people through this art.
THE COURSE:
You’ll be taught the art of Capoeira for 6 hours per week, split into three lessons normally held in the late afternoons. You will also be given the option of taking part in learning the music of Capoeira. Music lessons will be held for three hours each week. The Music lessons are optional but are included for you as part of your course, and highly recommended for the full capoeira experience!
BEGINNERS - YES YOU CAN!
Capoeira is good for everyone. The first time you experience capoeira, it seizes you. Its intoxicating energy, skill and beauty capture your attention and imagination. It also strikes as intimidating and something that you yourself could never do. This is not true! If you liked running about as a child, going upside down, jumping around and playing games with your friends, you will love capoeira.
The basic moves are simple and with a little practice they are easy to learn. You do not need to be particularly fit, flexible or have any background in martial arts or dance to learn capoeira. All that you need for capoeira, capoeira will teach you. All that you need right now is intrigue and enthusiasm!
Let capoeira change your life. Let it happen in the sunny hedonism of a country beating with the sacred rhythm of the berimbau.
RIO DE JANEIRO:
The colourful city of Rio, jammed between miles of coastline and mountains, is regarded as one of the world’s greatest and most beautiful cities in the world. It pulses with life and deserves its reputation as Cidade Maravilhosa (Wonderful City). The inhabitants of Rio, known locally as Carioca’s, pursue pleasure like no other people, fully utilizing their impressive beaches with beautiful people, samba, ice cold beers and the local firewater, cachaça!
"Those leaving after a stay in the city, apart from memories of the music, the flavours and the colours, take also something that has no translation - Saudade - (pronounced sau-dá-dji). It is the feeling of nostalgia, of missing something that you had while in Rio, and the certainty that the feeling will only go away when you come back. It is not for nothing that the greatest symbol of the city is waiting for you with open arms. Always."
Rio Convention Bureau
WHY NOT COMBINE TRAVELLERS PROJECTS IN RIO? SUCH AS:
► Teach or volunteer
► Music courses (a variety of local percussion/styles for you to choose from)
► Study Portuguese
► Photography courses
► Care and crèche work
► Learn to surf
► Dance and sports coaching
More information on all of these is available on Travellers website.
OUR PARTICIPANTS SAY....
"Capoeira is a completely unique Brazilian art-form. The two players try and outsmart each other, avoiding incoming kicks and transforming their defenses to attack from different angles. The spectators stand around the players playing the music that dictates the style and pace of the game, all the while singing songs that recall Capoeira's past history and culture. Capoeira has evolved over hundreds of years, assimilating elements of modern martial arts whilst retaining its cultural heritage and influences to produce a dazzling show of skill and interaction." Amazonas Brighton
‘During the walk around the world (‘volta ao mundo’) you will find all there is in life, good and evil. The success of the walk will depend on your capabilities as a player, particularly, your personality, your disposition, and lots of malicia.’ - Master Burguês
WHAT TO DO NEXT:
Talk to us - We're there to help you. Call +44 (0) 1903502
Most of our team are ex Travellers volunteers and are ideally qualified to offer advice and guidance because they know what you're looking for. They'll help you find your perfect project - and then make it all happen!
If you’d like more information about this or any of our projects, please email or call us!
If you’d like to apply for this project, please go to our website and complete the application form. As soon as we receive it, we’ll liaise with you and then start making your travel adventure happen.
It’s as easy as that.