When I first was contemplating to enroll in Capoeira: Practice and Culture, I decided to enroll with the intention of trying something new, forcing myself outside my comfort zone, and making my first semester at Duke a memorable one. This course has helped me accomplish all of these things and so much more. In studio classes, I not only learned the basic movements of capoeira, but in the process of doing so, I became closer to my fellow peers. Every partner/group activities and roda we engaged in allowed me to gain insight into the personalities of my classmates, as their personalities are oftentimes reflected in the way they play capoeira. In the weekly discussions, I gained so much insight into the culture and political state of Brazil.

In addition, I feel privileged to have the honor of meeting Mestre Roxinho in person. Though he was only at Duke for a week, I learned so much about how one can perceive capoeira (e.g. as food or as a language). The values he describes from capoeira spills into the rest of his life, as he is very passionate about fostering and serving his community. I was completely surprised and in admiration of his teaching academy, for which he was involved in physically building.

Overall, I am incredibly grateful for all of the learning opportunities Dr. Wesolowski provided my peers and me; thank you for making my first semester a Duke a truly memorable one!

This class has been one of the most fulfilling classes I have taken at Duke. Initially, I was skeptical to join the class because I had no dance experience, and no prior knowledge of Capoeira or the history it represents. I soon realized that Capoeira isn’t a dance, but rather a game that individuals engage in to fulfill themselves and others. Joining this class has allowed me to challenge myself, find a passionate community of people, and enjoy myself.

The style of the class made the subject matter particularly impactful. Each week, our class met twice for studio sessions, where we learned the movement, music, and instruments associated with Capoeira. This nicely complemented our class readings where we learned about the history and sociopolitical dynamics that shape Capoeira today. Having the chance to participate in both styles of learning made my Capoeira experience very thorough and complete.

It has been unique to learn about the metaphorical connection between Capoeira and life. Much like one’s community, entering the roda teaches us how to behave and carry ourselves. Additionally, challenging myself to communicate through bodily movements allowed me to form my own personalized style and connect even deeper with Capoeira.

I don’t think it’s far-fetched to say this has been one of the most enriching classes I’ve ever taken. From the first week, I have enjoyed learning about an entirely different culture and history, both so rich and fascinating. What makes this class unique, however, is the immersion in the culture. The weekly studio classes really help me experience what I learn from readings and seminars. Along the same line, the seminars helped me develop my movements and expressions when I play capoeira.

I think I have made strides this semester in both my performance and knowledge. I’m not the most physically gifted individual, but I really enjoy capoeira because it goes beyond that. You don’t need to be flexible or strong to express yourself through capoeira. I learned what matters more is how you feel and see when you’re playing, and how you communicate that.

This class has been a great experience that will live on to be an amazing memory for me from Duke. After a few weeks in the class, Mestre Roxinho came to visit Duke. It was inspiring to see his fluid way of moving and learn more of the philosophy of capoeira.

What I have learned is that anyone can enter the roda. Capoeira is a game that is meant to be played with others and anyone is welcome to participate no matter their race, religion, background, etc. Everyone has a different personality and way to communicate, so when you play in the roda you have to listen to your partner and observe their movement as much as planning out your own response. The goal is to create a conversation, add some trickery, and join either in movement or music.

I had a wonderful time in capoeira this semester, especially during Mestre Roxinho’s visit. He was so intentional in how he spent his time with us because we only had so much of it. We learned not just how to do certain capoeira moves, but also lessons about life and how it relates to this art form. For example, he spoke a lot about seeing the world from different perspectives, caring for others and the community you are apart of, and how doing things slowly with patience is vital to a good life.

Hearing about the Bantu Institute directly from him was special, and I’m so happy we have the opportunity to give back to Mestre and his institute for the time he spent with us. Oftentimes, I am worried that advocacy movements do not actually make a difference in lives, but the Bantu Institute is clearly impacting so many kids positively every day because of Mestre.

Our class had the pleasure of having Mestre Roxinho visit this semester. It was an amazing experience, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Mestre Roxinho is a highly skilled capoeirista, and it was truly inspiring to watch him move and perform. He has a fluidity and grace in his movements that is truly captivating, and it was a pleasure to see him in action. 

In addition to his impressive skills, Mestre Roxinho also brought great energy and enthusiasm to the class. He was engaging, and he was able to share his knowledge and expertise in a way that was both informative and entertaining.

Overall, having Mestre Roxinho visit my capoeira class was a truly memorable experience, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from him.

Mestre Roxinho visited our class for a week in early November, and in the short time he was here, he made a significant impact both on the way we play capoeira and the way we see the world around us! Our class began to think of capoeira, in the roda and outside of it, in a different light. He emphasized the importance of always being aware and actively engaging in the activity you are in. Capoeira highlights the necessity of grounding yourself in whatever you are doing and helping you look at the ways you engage and converse with your peers. Mestre Roxinho’s story of capoeira and how he uses his skills to help teach youth who face challenges in their daily life, inspired us all to support his mission. We hope to help spread capoeira in the Duke community and support the Bantu Cultural Institute to expand Mestre’s love and passion for the game!

Mestre Roxinho’s visit to our class was the most formative experience I have had this semester.  Roxinho is a true expert and his passion for capoeira is infectious. Roxinho worked with us on our movement, singing, and mindset when approaching capoeira and life. I can see how the Bantu Institute that Mestre Rodinho creatd is a powerful mechanism for helping Brazilian youth. Capoeira is a great escape and way to view the world and I hope you consider giving it a try and supporting the Bantu Institute.