What happens in Rio doesn’t stay in Rio 😉
Hello Capoeiristas, Friends, and Community,
As we step into September, our hearts are still full from an extraordinary August that brought our community closer to the roots of capoeira. From the 18th to the 25th, a dedicated group of students traveled to Brazil, first to train and compete at Mestre Camisa’s renowned Centro Educacional de Mestre Bimba (CEMB), and then to participate in the ABADÁ-Capoeira Jogos Mundiais (World Games) and the graduation ceremony. (Follow us on Instagram to see footage of our trip throughout this month!)
Going to CEMB marks a pivot point for capoeiristas from around the world. There, we immersed ourselves in intensive training, living and breathing the rhythms, movements, and teachings of capoeira. For many, it was a transformative milestone—an experience that strengthens not only skill, but spirit and connection to the lineage of our art and our group.
From CEMB, our journey carried us to Rio de Janeiro, where we joined thousands of capoeiristas at the ABADÁ-Capoeira Jogos Mundiais, held at the legendary Fundição Progresso. Our group witnessed and participated in competitions and rodas that brought together capoeiristas from nearly every nation, and we even brought home a few medals! More on that, below.
The energy of the Jogos is unlike anything else—an electrifying blend of artistry, athleticism, and community spirit. Standing in that space, surrounded by the global ABADÁ family, reminded us once again of the incredible reach of this tradition and the unique role we all play in carrying it forward here in San Francisco.
As we look ahead to the fall, we carry the inspiration and lessons of Brazil with us—ready to channel that energy into our own upcoming celebrations, including our annual Youth & Adult Workshops, Batizado and Graduation Ceremony this October 22nd-26th. This year (our 33rd! and Mestra’s 60th birthday!) promises to be especially meaningful, and we can’t wait to share it with all of you.
Warmly,
Mestra Márcia Cigarra & Professora Sereia