Young people show interest in Capoeira dance

World Today

World Cup fever has been sweeping China, of course, watching their favorite World Cup teams at home, or relaxing with friends in a local pub. But there’s another Brazilian craze that’s hit the country, the Capoeira. It’s Brazilians dancing when it’s not Brazilians fighting.

Since the Brazil World Cup began in mid-June, the traditional Brazilian martial art Capoeira, has been becoming more and more popular among young people here in Shanghai. Diego Guerreiro is the instructor at Capoeira Mandinga Shanghai and says lately he’s been receiving many invitations to exhibitions, shows, and demonstrations, and many requests from local students as well. It’s completely different from a decade ago when he first brought this Brazilian art form to the city.

Originating among slave communities on the east coast of Brazil, Capoeira combines martial arts, gymnastics, dance and a workout. Chinese students see it as a great way of exercise.

Apart from learning the Capoeira movements, students also have the chance to get to know Brazilian culture through feeling its music and learning the language.

Just as at the 2010 Shanghai Expo, Caponera and Diego believe this year’s Brazil World Cup has helped build a bridge between China and a foreign culture. And from the growing popularity of Capoeira in China, it looks like the bridge will last.

Young people show interest in Capoeira dance

World Cup fever has been sweeping China, of course, watching their favorite World Cup teams at home, or relaxing with friends in a local pub. But there's another Brazilian craze that's hit the country, the Capoeira. It's Brazilians dancing when it's not Brazilians fighting.