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Capoeira Contemporânea, also known as Contemporary Capoeira, is a modern interpretation and evolution of the traditional Afro-Brazilian martial art of capoeira. This style represents a fusion of the traditional elements found in Capoeira Angola and Capoeira Regional while also incorporating influences from other martial arts, and contemporary movements.
Origins and Evolution
Capoeira Contemporânea emerged during the latter part of the 20th century, particularly from the 1940s to the 1980s, a formative period in Rio de Janeiro that significantly contributed to the development of this style. During this time, practitioners began to explore new possibilities and expand the boundaries of Capoeira, leading to the creation of a style that embraces creativity, individual expression, and innovation. Despite its modern approach, Capoeira Contemporânea maintains the fundamental principles and techniques of traditional Capoeira.
Distinctions from Angola and Regional
Capoeira Contemporânea is often distinguished from the two main traditional styles of Capoeira: Capoeira Angola and Capoeira Regional. While Capoeira Angola is known for its slower, more ritualistic gameplay and Capoeira Regional for its faster, more acrobatic style, Capoeira Contemporânea blends elements of both. It includes Angola's characteristic acrobatics and theatricality, along with Regional's agility and precision.
Practitioners of Capoeira Contemporânea often incorporate acrobatics, complex kicks, and dynamic movements into their gameplay, with some groups merging elements of Angola and Regional into a single style, while others practice each style separately depending on the rhythm played by the bateria. In contrast, a true Regional school is typically defined by its adherence to the methods and stylistic practices established by Mestre Bimba, including the use of the Sequências de Bimba and the Cintura Desprezada.
Musicality and Rhythm
Musicality plays a central role in Capoeira Contemporânea. The music accompanying this style can vary.
Characteristics and Techniques
One of the defining features of Capoeira Contemporânea is its emphasis on fluid transitions between movements, incorporating both ground and aerial techniques. The style encourages improvisation, personal expression, and a freer exchange of movements between practitioners. Influences from other dance forms, such as breakdancing and hip-hop, are often evident in Capoeira Contemporânea, adding to its dynamic and contemporary aesthetic.
Global Influence and Practice
Capoeira Contemporânea has gained popularity both in Brazil and internationally, attracting practitioners who appreciate its modern approach to the traditional art form. This style is practiced in a variety of settings, from dedicated Capoeira schools to fitness centers and dance studios around the world.
Unlike traditional Capoeira schools, which may adhere closely to specific methods and teachings, Capoeira Contemporânea schools often operate independently, allowing for a wide range of interpretations and innovations. Some larger schools, such as Capoeira Brasil and Cordão de Ouro, maintain a level of uniformity in their style, though teaching methods and graduation requirements can vary significantly even within these groups.
Connection to Tradition
Although Capoeira Contemporânea is rooted in the traditions of Capoeira Angola and Capoeira Regional, its emergence was influenced by the migration of capoeiristas away from Salvador, Bahia—the cultural hub of Capoeira. This migration led to a divergence from some of the traditional elements tied to African heritage, such as Samba and Candomblé, which were integral to the practice of Capoeira in Salvador. While some Capoeira Contemporânea schools strive to preserve these traditions, the distance from Salvador has made this preservation challenging.