Capoeira
Capoeira is a unique, interdisciplinary Brazilian art form combining acrobatics, dance, martial arts and passionate Afro-Brazilian music. Originating in Brazil during colonization in the 15th century, capoeira was created by African slaves that were moved to Brazil as a way to train and practice martial arts with the disguise of music and dance. Today, capoeira’s disguise is still important to the art, and while appearing beautiful, is still an effective means of self-defense.
Maculelê
Maculelê is an Afro-Brazilian dance created by African slave workers on the sugarcane plantations in Bahia, Northeast Brazil. The dance is choreographed based on the movements and drum rhythms used during the harvest. The slaves used machetes to cut the sugarcane, but later they developed a form of dance with sticks.
Dança Afro
Afro-Brazilian dance was first created by the slaves of Brazil's colonial era. The mixture of the steps and rhythms brought by the slaves, with Indigenous and Europeans influences were essential to the vitality of Brazilian dance. In order to accommodate a rhythmical richness, Afro-Brazilian dance has as its main characteristics the rapid marking of the rhythm by the feet, and free and independent movements of arms, chest, head and hips.
Colheita
Colheita is a traditional harvest dance from Brazil. The dance -- portrayed entirely by women -- represents the annual bean harvest in rural Brazil. The dancers wear traditional colorful and flowing skirts. They swing woven baskets rhythmically, which is derived from collecting and sifting beans at the harvest.
Coco de Roda
Coco De Roda is a typical dance from the beach regions of the Northeast of Brazil and has a strong African drumming influence. The choreography of the dance involves steps and movements traditional of the indigenous Tupis peoples of Brazil.