Brazilian fight-dance academy opening in city
A BRAZILIAN martial arts master will open a special academy dedicated to the South American dance-fight game Capoeira in Liverpool on Monday.
Mestre Parente (Alexandre Ferreira) came from Brazil to the North West in 2002, establishing Capoeira groups in Manchester and Liverpool.
He continues to teach at events all over the world and attract international guests to the city.
Mestre Parente has performed at Africa Oye, The Slavery Museum, The Beatles Festival, Tate Liverpool and The Lowry in Manchester in addition to commercial shows for companies including Nike and Brahma Beer.
He teaches a Capoeira module for the dance degree students in Edge Hill University and Manchester College, and has taught in over 300 schools, colleges and Universities in the North West.
The Capoeira Academy, which will be based within the brand new Northern Lights site at Cains Brewery, will be the first of it’s kind in the North West.
The academy will enable students of all ages and levels to have a fully equipped space dedicated to learning the techniques and traditions of the sport.
Mestre Parente said: “Capoeira was created by African slaves in Brazil in the 17th Century as a form of self defence hidden in dance.
“But it is taught all over the world today and is suitable for everyone. It will improve your coordination, flexibility and strength, but more than that – it’s a social activity that improves confidence, inter-personal connections and forms communities.
“The new academy will be a place for capoeiristas [those who participate in capoeira] to train the discipline, learn music and songs, dance and socialise. There will be classes for all ages and abilities several times per week, and beginners are always welcome.”
