Reinaldo Ramos Suassuna

Reinaldo Ramos Suassuna (born on July 3, 1938, in Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil) widely known as Mestre Suassuna, is a capoeira mestre and founder of the international capoeira organization Cordão de Ouro.

Early Life and Introduction to Capoeira

Mestre Suassuna's journey into capoeira began due to a physical condition affecting his legs during his childhood. His doctor recommended physical activity, and through the influence of friends, Suassuna began training in capoeira. He initially trained under local masters in Itabuna, including Mestre Sururú, Bigode de Arame, and Maneca Brandão. His early exposure to capoeira in the street rodas of Bahia allowed him to absorb the rich cultural and technical aspects of the art.

Influences and Development

To deepen his knowledge, Suassuna frequently traveled to Salvador, where he engaged with some of the most renowned capoeira masters of the time. Among his key influences were Mestre Bimba, Mestre Canjiquinha, Mestre Pastinha, and Mestre Waldemar. Mestre Bimba and Mestre Canjiquinha, in particular, played pivotal roles in shaping Suassuna's capoeira style and philosophy. Their teachings laid the foundation for what would later become Suassuna's own contributions to the capoeira community.

Move to São Paulo and the Founding of Cordão de Ouro

Main article: Cordão de Ouro

In 1965, Mestre Suassuna moved to São Paulo, following invitations from friends and the opportunity to further develop capoeira outside Bahia. The transition was challenging, as he had to navigate financial difficulties and adjust to life far from his hometown. However, his persistence paid off when he met Mestre Brasília at Ze Freita’s Academy. Together, they founded the Associação de Capoeira Cordão de Ouro on September 1, 1967, in Vila Mariana, São Paulo. The group quickly gained recognition for its dynamic and creative approach to the art.

Contributions to Capoeira

Mestre Suassuna is celebrated not only for founding Cordão de Ouro but also for his innovative contributions to capoeira. He developed the "Miudinho" style, a variation of the traditional Capoeira Angola game known as Jogo de Dentro. Miudinho is characterized by its intricate, close-range movements and rhythmic dynamism, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity within capoeira.

Throughout his career, Mestre Suassuna has been instrumental in spreading capoeira globally. His efforts include organizing workshops, seminars, and performances across various countries, contributing to the internationalization of capoeira. He has also produced several musical recordings that have become integral to the capoeira community.

Legacy

Today, Cordão de Ouro is one of the most influential capoeira groups in the world, with branches on every continent. Mestre Suassuna's legacy is marked by his dedication to the art, his role in preserving and innovating capoeira traditions, and his impact on generations of capoeiristas worldwide.

Mestre Suassuna continues to be a revered figure in the capoeira world, known for his expertise, creativity, and passion for the art form. His life's work has significantly shaped the landscape of capoeira, ensuring its vitality and relevance for future generations.

References

1. "Mestre Suassuna", PT Wikipedia. Accessed September 7, 2024.
2. "Mestre Suassuna", Grupo Cordão de Ouro. Accessed September 7, 2024.
3. CDO Hawaii. Accessed September 7, 2024.
4. Capoeira Online. Accessed September 7, 2024.
5. La Laue Capoeira. Accessed September 7, 2024.