The Dance Floor presents URCapoeira’s Urban Ritual: A Day of Brazilian and Cuban Movement
Join Mestre Fantasma and special guests for an immersive afternoon celebrating the powerful connection between Afro-Brazilian Capoeira and Cuban folkloric rhythms.
This six-hour takeover invites all ages and levels to experience the history, philosophy, and practical joy of these art forms, culminating in a vibrant social dance led by Cuban Master Luanda Pau. It’s a day of culture, music, and electrifying communal movement.
Header image © Emma Stoner
Saturday 22 November
1 pm – 7 pm
The Dance Floor, Sadler’s Wells East
Free
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Programme schedule:
| 1 pm – 1:45 pm | Capoeira: Family & Intro Workshop An accessible workshop covering basic movements, music, history, and philosophy. Perfect for beginners, families, and all ages who want a fun introduction to Capoeira. |
| 1:45 pm – 3:30 pm | Open Capoeira Roda: Urban Ritual An authentic, high-energy open roda featuring live music and singing. Watch Capoeira at its peak and join the circle! Includes special guest masters and high-level gameplay. |
| 3:30 pm – 4 pm | Social Time & Transition A 30-minute break for informal networking, refreshments, and preparing the space for the Cuban Dance session. |
| 4 pm – 5 pm | Cuban Dance Workshop An introductory class in essential Cuban folkloric and social dance rhythms, led by the renowned Luanda Pau. Focuses on connection, musicality, and finding your flow. |
| 5 pm – 7 pm
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Social Get-Together & Animations An open social dance party! A dynamic, inclusive session where the energy of the day culminates with continuous music and movement/dance led follow-ons (animations), ensuring everyone leaves feeling energized. |
About Mestre Fantasma (Simon Atkinson)
Capoeira Master, Founder of URCapoeira, known for his commitment to the authentic, high-level game and preserving the foundational principles received before the art’s globalization.
About Luanda Pau
Highly respected Cuban folkloric dancer and educator, recognized for her deep knowledge of both ritual and social Cuban dance forms. (Daughter of Maestro Domingo Pau).