Mozambique

In January 2003, Joãozinho da Figueira travelled to Africa and stayed in Maputo, Mozambique for a year, with the objective of reinforcing the cultural link between Brazil and Africa.

On the 3rd April, the Independent Social and Cultural Project 'MarAzul' began, integrating capoeira with African dance and percussion, working with adults and children, especially street kids through open and free lessons in the 'Penha Palhota' by the sea. Weekly open capoeira rodas were started (infront of Cine África), and the group gave presentations in cultural events promoted by various organisations.

In December 2003, MarAzul organised 'Natal da Matapa', ('Matapa Christmas', matapa is a local dish made from cassava leaves, coconut and peanuts), uniting children and adults from various parts of the city for an open air lunch by the sea, with capoeira, african dance and percussion presentations, in solidarity with the street kids.

Also in December 2003 MarAzul produced the show 'Connection MarAzul: Africa – Brazil', presented in the French-Mozambican Cultural Centre, one of the most important cultural centres of the city of Maputo. Click here to download a video clip showing the highlights of the show (Quicktime, 605Kb). The show was the result of the integration of capoeira with African dance and percussion that occurred during the year in Maputo.

The project continues coordenated by Joãozinho da Figueira, founder and coordenator of MarAzul, Lulu Sala, dancer, choreographer and percussionist of the National Song and Dance Company of Mozambique, and António Machungo.

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