These Philly Capoeiristas Honor the Legacy of Capoeira Angola

Under the watchful eye of Mestre Kamau, capoeiristas at FICA Philadelphia play Capoeira Angola, an Afro-Brazilian spiritual martial art. During weekly classes spanning 20 years at MLK Jr. Recreation Center, participants prepare their songs, dances, and dodging techniques for the roda, a circular ‘game’ requiring the talents of all in attendance. This community was formed over 20 years, and they intend to continue this tradition for generations to come.

Chapters
The Roda 0:00
That One Time Capoeira was Banned 00:58
Classes at MLK Jr Center 2:31
The Power of Capoeira Angola 5:12
The Next Generation of Capoeiristas 6:20

Learn more
https://www.ficaphiladelphia.org/classes
https://whyy.org/segments/capoeiras-r...


FICA Philadelphia is a non-profit community organization raising funding for a more permanent space to have their roda. You can support their goal here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/fica-philly

WHYY Digital Studios
Producer
Kayla Watkins

Camera
Alejandro Miyashiro
Kayla Watkins
Sarah Moses

Production Assistant
Michael Shiffler

Interviews
Mestre Kamau Blakney
Contramestre Eva

FICA Philadelphia Capoeiristas
Margo Schall
Samantha Mayer
Aidan Un
Khepri Amunet
Zubayr Ade
Wesley Cooper
Contramestre Eva
Nouriya Sy
Jenna Martin Michelin

FICA Philadelphia Photographer
Aidan Un

Paintings

Slaves fighting, 19th century engraving, artist unknown
Courtesy of Thomas J. Desch-Obi,

Jogar capoëra ou danse de la guerre"
Rugendas c. 1830

Capoeira, Brazils Augustus Earl c 1822.
Courtesy of National Library of Australia