Brazilian martial arts school celebrates a decade in Cork

Martial artists from around the world will descend on Cork this weekend for what may be the biggest celebration of Capoeira Ireland has ever seen.

The event, which runs from 20-22 October, marks the 10th anniversary of the opening of Capoeira Cork in the city.

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art form that was developed by Afro-descended slaves in Brazil over 400 years ago.

Capoeira Cork describes the practice as a game between two participants, where they use martial arts, dance, acrobatics, cunning, and wit to try to outplay one another, whilst maintaining a smooth flow.

Over 150 people from around the country and from overseas are expected to travel to Leeside for the event which will incorporate music, dance, acrobatics, and Afro-Brazilian folklore and culture.

More than 20 guest teachers from Brazil, Canada, the UK, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany will also be making the journey to Cork in order to share their extensive knowledge.

Capoeira Cork founder Paulo Farinha, aka Professor Curioso, arrived on Leeside in 2012 and started taking students shortly afterwards in 2013. Originally from Toronto, Canada, he has over 20 years’ experience in the artform.

From humble beginnings ten years ago with just two adults classes a week, Capoeira Cork has grown into a school that now has nine weekly classes across all ages delivered by six expert coaches, as well as a monthly Roda (traditional dance).

Months of fundraising and rehearsals by members of Capoeira Cork went into making the event a reality.

The 10 year Capoeira Cork celebration runs from 20-22 October is the school’s location at St Vincents Catholic Secondary School, St Mary’s Road, Cork city. For more information, visit capoeiracork.com/contact.