Afro-Brazilian Conference 2016 Fundraiser Party
During the 16th Century, African slaves were captured and brought to Brazil, bringing with them beliefs and practices that gradually permeated the Brazilian culture. One such practice was Capoeira Angola, a discipline that combines dance, music, meditation and non-combative martial arts.
Project Bantu is a program for troubled and disadvantaged youth that uses Capoeira Angola as a form of intervention therapy. Founded in Australia in 2006 by Mestre Roxinho, the movement has slowly gained momentum and is being introduced to schools and communities that have issues with adolescent behaviour.
To raise funds to continue Project Bantu’s valuable work, this Saturday you’re invited to shake your body to superb afro-tropical rhythms at the Red Rattler. The night will feature exquisite Brazilian food, live music and tropical sounds spinning from famous DJ collective Afrobrasiliana Soundsystem.
This event will help to recoup costs from the eighth annual STARTTS Youth Capoeira Angola Encounter, a five-day workshop help earlier this month which brought together participants and teachers from several countries to meet, learn and interact.
There are many aspects to Capoeira Angola. It involves music played on traditional instruments (and sometimes singing) while two opponents face each other in a game that, although it involves specific attacking and defensive movements, is more about psyching out your opponent.
When asked how the practice actually helps young people, Mestre Roxinho explains that it is a gentle process that encourages them to open up, without judging, without questioning:
“When they come to the point where they open themselves and participate it means something’s changed.”
Communication and respect are inherent in the practice of Capoeira Angola and this then translates to the wider world.
All are welcome to celebrate the joy of Capoeira and Afro-Brazilian culture at the fundraiser. (RB)
Sat Nov 19, 8pm–1am. Red Rattler Theatre, 6 Faversham Street, Marrickville. $10. Info: www.projectbantu.org Tickets: www.eventbrite.com.au
BY RITA BRATOVICH
