Is capoeira losing its origins? Currently, we have a new generation and a new regional capoeira, called “modern” by some, and which has as main features a contracted and fixed swing, without the update of the flourish, with excessive speed in the execution of movements and accurate technical level in the few strokes repeatedly applied (“half moons” and “stingray tails”).
Without much concern about the defensive part, besides the breathtaking jumps, borrowed from acrobatic gymnastics, executed with extreme speed, demanding of the practitioner to be an excellent athlete. Adding to all this, we notice the complete absence of the old rituals and precepts of traditional capoeira, accelerated drums and no defined standards, totally uncharacteristic songs and, in certain groups, what is most disturbing, the allowance to use strokes from other fightings.
This has been increasingly de-characterizing our art, and many who are starting now do not know its origins and roots. We have observed, also in angola capoeira, a constant evolution, which had its climax in the birth, in the 80’s decade, of a new contemporary style, pretty and efficient, and which has been widely accepted among the youngest. It is base on Master João Grande of New York’s game, and has as its greatest representative, in Brazil, Master Moraes, pupil of João Grande. In addition to other traditional features, it introduces a relaxed and loose swing, although with a similar rhythm and flourish.
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