Kapoeira Angola
An Afro-Brasilian martial art of self-defense, dance, and sacred acrobatics — practiced in New Orleans by Grupo Besouro under Mestre Curtis Pierre.
JUMPSTART YOUR HEALTH!
Kapoeira is a full-body workout that builds strength, flexibility, rhythm, and confidence — while connecting you to a 400-year-old African tradition. Your very first class is FREE. Come in your comfortable clothes, no experience needed.
The Tradition
What is Kapoeira Angola?
Kapoeira Angola is the oldest and most traditional form of Kapoeira. Brought to Brasil by enslaved Africans from Angola, Congo, and other Central African kingdoms, it disguised self-defense inside dance, song, and ritual so that Africans could keep their fighting arts alive under colonial law.
Practiced in the roda — a circle of players, singers, and musicians — Kapoeira Angola emphasizes cunning, low movements, deception, and deep respect for one's elders and lineage. It is played slow. It is played close. It is played with the whole body listening to the berimbau.
In New Orleans, Grupo Besouro under Mestre Curtis Pierre carries this tradition forward — training children, adults, and elders in the movement, music, and philosophy of one of the world's most beautiful martial arts.
See It In Motion
Kapoeira Angola, Live
Movement demonstrations recorded during New Orleans Kapoeira classes.
What You Will Gain
Acquired Benefits
Physical Fitness
Full-body strength, cardio, and flexibility.
Self-Defense
Learn to read, evade, and respond to attack.
Community
Join a global family of Angoleiros.
Discipline & Focus
The roda teaches presence and patience.
Cultural Heritage
Speak Portuguese, sing, play the berimbau.
Philosophy
Malícia, mandinga, respect for elders.
For the Next Generation
Kapoeira Kids Practice
Children learn Kapoeira starting at the age of 5. It builds strength, coordination, focus, and confidence — while teaching the rhythm, music, and philosophy of an ancient African art form.
- Age-appropriate movement, music, and games — never aggressive
- Teaches respect, responsibility, and fairness through the roda
- FREE for all children under 18
When to Train
Class Schedule
All classes at Escola de Samba Casa Samba, 800 Race Street, New Orleans. Your first class is FREE.
Publication
A Kapoeira Study Guide
A 324-page study guide by Mestre Curtis Pierre covering movement, music, history, and philosophy — the reference book for serious students of Kapoeira Angola in New Orleans and beyond.
Read the Book
Get In Touch
Come Train With Us
Location
800 Race Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone
504-236-7479
casasambacurtis@gmail.com