Full name: José Carlos Andrade Bittencourt
Born: March 9, 1936
Died: May 18, 1996
Lineage: Disciple of Mestre Bimba
Known for: Preserving the original academy and legacy of Capoeira Regional

Early Training

José Carlos Andrade Bittencourt, known in capoeira as Mestre Vermelho 27, began training Capoeira Regional in the early 1950s with a deep desire to belong to Mestre Bimba’s circle of students. At first, the physical training was demanding, but through determination and discipline he adapted and became one of Bimba’s most loyal and dedicated pupils.

Mestre Bimba himself described him as “maluco por capoeira”—crazy about capoeira—in a positive and affectionate sense, referring to his passion and commitment.

Preserving Bimba’s Academy

In 1972, at a time when Mestre Bimba faced serious financial difficulties and considered leaving Salvador, Vermelho 27 took on the responsibility of preserving the original academy space (Centro de Cultura Física Regional).
Many students admired Bimba but could not afford to take on the financial responsibility. Being an employee of PETROBRÁS, Vermelho 27 had the resources to help.

Bimba entrusted him with the space, believing he was the only one committed enough to maintain it:

“Vermelho, você é o único que pode ficar com este espaço porque é maluco por capoeira.”

This act was essential. Because of him, the physical home of Capoeira Regional was not lost.

Work After Bimba’s Departure and Passing

When Mestre Bimba later moved to Goiás, Vermelho 27 continued running the academy with help from capoeiristas such as Boa Gente, Ferro Velho, Vermelho Boxel, Bahia, Bando, and others.
The space became a meeting point for important discussions about the preservation of Regional and the continuity of Bimba’s methods.

After Bimba’s death in 1974, Vermelho 27 renamed the academy Centro de Capoeira Regional da Bahia, always emphasizing that he was not Bimba’s “successor”—only a guardian of what he had learned. He believed that every qualified student of Bimba had the responsibility to transmit the teachings, since Bimba left no official designated heir.

The Meaning of “27”

He added “27” to his name for two reasons:

1. To distinguish himself from another capoeirista known as Vermelho (a student of Mestre Pastinha).

2. Because 27 was his lucky number—his roulette number and even the number on his car’s license plate.

Final Years

Even in his last moments, while hospitalized and unable to speak clearly, Vermelho 27 continued making notes about berimbau toques in a small notebook. His dedication to Capoeira Regional lasted until his final breath.

He passed away on May 18, 1996, from respiratory complications. A berimbau was placed upon his body, honoring the path he walked and the art he served.

Legacy

Mestre Vermelho 27 is remembered as:

• A faithful guardian of Mestre Bimba’s academy

• A central figure in safeguarding the physical and cultural heritage of Regional

• A passionate capoeirista who lived his motto:
  “Sou maluco por capoeira.”

Thanks to his efforts, the historic building at Rua Monsenhor Baretto nº 1 continues to function as a living monument to Capoeira Regional.