A veteran to the art since 1982, Mestranda Márcia Cigarra maintains international recognition for her accomplishments in the field. She began her teaching career in 1987, working with street children of Rio, and since has taught and performed throughout Brazil, North America, and Europe.
Mestranda Márcia "Cigarra" moved to the Bay Area in 1991 and founded ABADÁ-Capoeira San Francisco, an organization dedicated to preserving the traditions and expanding the scope of Capoeira. Under her artistic direction, this non-profit organization has grown to serve over 20,000 people annually through instructional programs and performances.
In 1997, Mestranda Márcia Cigarra was granted permanent residency in the United States after receiving a National Interest Waiver as an "Alien with Extraordinary Abilities." That same year she founded the ABADÁ-Capoeira/Brazilian Arts Center, located in the Mission District of San Francisco, the first and only San Francisco center dedicated to Afro-Brazilian cultural arts.
Mestranda Márcia Treidler "Cigarra"'s work reflects her commitment to the preservation and expansion of an art form that has an invaluable impact on the cultural standing of our communities. Her outstanding achievements make her a highly sought-after teacher, an inspirational leader, and an important role model.
3221 22nd Street @Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
email: info@abada.org or call 415-206-0650
