Cai Na Capoeira Classes

with Contra Mestre Cabeção

Ongoing Mondays I 6:30 - 7:30 pm I Pricing Varies

Capoeira is a unique art form that combines elements of martial arts, dance, and music into a game of physical dialogue. It emerged in Brazil as a means of empowerment, freedom, and survival for enslaved African and Indigenous peoples. Today there are many different philosophies and styles of capoeira being practiced worldwide. Capoeiristas rhythmically exchange acrobatic “attacks” and “escapes” in the roda. It is a full mind-body workout that builds both physical and mental flexibility and strength. It is widely enjoyed by practitioners of all ages for its playful nature and aesthetic appeal, as a competitive “dance.”

Contra Mestre Cabeção has more than 25 years of experience studying and teaching Capoeira, and holds a Bachelors Degree in Physical Education. His journey with Capoeira began with Mestre Esquilo in Sete Lagoas, MG, Brasil in June 1996. He participated in numerous Capoeira events throughout Brazil, Israel and the USA, and has been performing and teaching in various locations in the U.S. since April 2011. 

In January 2012 Contra Mestre Cabeção and his assistant, Instrutora Areia, started teaching and performing in the Hudson Valley NY region. We offer programming for daycares, schools, summer camps, community and senior centers. As a pediatric occupational therapist, Instrutora Areia contributes a unique understanding of the therapeutic benefits of capoeira, and provides additional support and/or accommodations for students with special needs, upon request. Together, we have been working as Cai Na Capoeira to organize classes, workshops, performances and events with the intention of promoting capoeira and all elements of music, culture, health, dance and the arts for people of all ages and abilities.