Martial Art. Dance. Movement. and so much more

Discover the transformative power of capoeira as an art form with movements, culture, music, and history all in one. Our classes are designed to enhance strength, self-discipline, and community for practitioners of all levels.

Six men standing, two men squatting, and one man bending over on a sandy surface near a boat, with a sailboat in the background.

What is Capoeira?

Capoeira is a multifaceted Afro-Brazilian cultural expression, globally recognized for its distinctive synthesis of martial arts, dance, music, acrobatics, and spiritual elements. It represents a dynamic art form that embodies a profound history of resistance, resilience, and the enduring preservation of culture. Born from the tribulation of the transatlantic slave trade in Brazil, capoeira emerged as a vital means of self-defense and cultural expression for enslaved Africans, evolving from a clandestine combat game into a globally recognized art form that continues to reflect its deep African roots and its enduring spirit of liberation.

Class Details

 

  • The Dance Complex

    4667 MacArthur Blvd suite 150, Newport Beach, CA 92660

  • Tuesdays and Thursdays

    7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

  • Fridays 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.

  • Monthly Subscription

    • $100 - 1x/week

    • $130 - 2x/week

    Yearly Subscription

    • $80 - 1x/week

    • $110 - 2x/week

Our Leadership

  • A smiling man with dark hair wearing a white sleeveless shirt with blue and pink text and graphics on it.

    Professor Grilo


    Professor Grilo has studied Capoeira for over 15 years under the mentorship of Contra Mestre Corpo Fechado. His teaching blends tradition and creativity, offering Capoeira not just as a martial art, but as a powerful tool for self-expression, discipline, and personal growth.

    Through movement, music, and community, Professor Grilo helps students build confidence, connect with others, and discover their own voice within the roda.

  • A smiling man with short dark hair and a beard, wearing a white sleeveless athletic shirt and an arm tattoo, sitting in a gym or training facility with gym equipment and a large logo in the background.

    Contra Mestre Corpo Fechado


    Corpo Fechado first opened his school, The Capoeira Dance & Fitness Center, in 2009 with locations now in Long Beach and Irvine.

    Corpo Fechado truly believes that anyone that can walk (and even some that can’t) can play Capoeira and benefit from the endless gifts the art has to offer.

  • A man with a shaved head and a subtle smile, wearing a gray shirt and a chain necklace, resting his chin on his hand in an indoor setting.

    Mestre Mariano

    As Founder of the Brazilian Cultural Arts Center of Santa Barbara, founded in 2001, Mariano creates space for community members to discover themselves and support each other through cultural arts.

    CDFC is affiliated with Capoeira Relampue in Santa Barbara, with the mentorship and guidance of Mestre Mariano Silva.

Contact Us

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