Raízes do Brasil Capoeira - New York

Maculelê is a Brazilian Folklore that was originated in Santo Amaro da Purificação, a city located in Recôncavo Baiano (Bahia-Brazil). This city is characterized by having rich popular cultural manifestations, with African heritage. Maculelê is a dance with sticks, sometimes performed with machetes or even fire. The origin of maculelê is controversial. Some say that Maculelê was originated in the sugar-cane plantation by the slaves, whom used to practice the dance to relieve their anger against slavery. Others say that the slaves used sticks and machetes to defend themselves against the slave masters punishment, which was then later progressed into maculelê. A different version suggests that it has native indian roots, from the "cucumbis" indian tribe. Maculelê has steps similar to many other Brazilian dances such as "frevo" from Pernanbuco, "Moçambique" from São Paulo, "Cana-verde" from Vassouras-RJ, "Bate-pau" from Mato Grosso, "Tudundun" from Pará among others. It is essential to preserve maculelê. It is amazing to watch a well-done Maculelê performance!