Mestre Angelo "Capacete Baraúna"

Biography:

Mestre Capacete Baraúna (born Angelo dos Anjos Oliveira on February 8, 1983, in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil) is a respected Capoeira master whose journey in the art form began at the age of 12. His initial steps into Capoeira were guided by Mestre Ricardo “Camisa Furada” from the Grupo Berimbau dos Palmares. After a brief time with Mestre Ricardo, he continued his studies with the renowned Mestre KK Bonates, who played a significant role in shaping his path.

In 2001, Mestre Capacete was granted the title of Treinel, and over the years, he developed several Capoeira-related projects in Manaus. His dedication to the art culminated on September 30, 2012, when he achieved the rank of Contramestre, and on July 4, 2022, he was recognized with the title of Mestre.

Throughout his career, Mestre Capacete has taught Capoeira across the globe, bringing his knowledge to countries such as Brazil, South Korea, Thailand, Jamaica, Germany, Iceland, Italy, the Netherlands, France, Finland, Belgium, Sweden, Spain, the UK, Switzerland, Cape Verde, Japan, and many more. He has conducted and participated in numerous workshops, seminars, cultural events, and festivals, furthering the reach of Capoeira worldwide.

In 2006, Mestre Capacete moved to Kingston, Jamaica, where he helped establish the Grupo de Capoeira Cativeiro, becoming one of the pioneers of Capoeira in the Caribbean. He also founded the NGO Capoeira Afalia, through which he spearheaded the Capoeira for Peace project, an anti-violence initiative funded by the Brazilian Embassy in Kingston and the Organization of American States (OAS). Additionally, he played a crucial role in organizing various socio-cultural projects in Jamaica, further promoting Capoeira's growth in the region.

In 2009, Mestre Capacete moved to Catalonia, Spain, where he founded the first Escola Matumbé in Europe in 2010. Currently, he serves as the Director and Coordinator of the Escola Matumbé Capoeira Angola in Rome, Italy. There, he continues to develop socio-cultural programs aimed at preserving Brazilian popular culture and maintaining the traditional foundations of Capoeira, following the teachings of the “old Bahian masters” with professionalism, integrity, and commitment.

Mestre Capacete’s journey reflects his deep dedication to Capoeira as both an art form and a cultural movement. Through his teaching, projects, and international influence, he has significantly contributed to the spread and preservation of Capoeira worldwide.