The roda is the heart and soul of capoeira. Within this lively circle, capoeiristas showcase their skills, blending combat with dance, all to the rhythm of traditional music.
What is a Roda?
The roda is a circle formed by capoeiristas (capoeira practitioners) and musicians. The circle is where the "game" happens. Participants take turns entering the circle to engage in a unique blend of combat and dance, and immerse themselves in the rhythms of traditional instruments like the berimbau, atabaque, and pandeiro.
The word "roda" is Portuguese for "wheel."
The roda is more than just a physical arena; it embodies the rich traditions and community spirit of capoeira. It serves as a learning ground, a place of unity, and a cultural ritual where respect and etiquette are paramount. Within the roda, the rhythm of the music dictates the flow of the game, and the interplay between the capoeiristas becomes a dance of strategy, skill, and spontaneity.
For many capoeiristas, the roda is a transformative experience. Itâs where they hone their skills, build relationships, and connect with their cultural roots. Stories from practitioners often highlight the rodaâs impact on their personal growth and sense of community.
With malicia, the player unmasks and "sees" this or that person's real personality. He perceives who hides behind a certain facade that mya present itself as charming, civilized, well-spoken, and intelligent. This happens because of the living experience that one acquires inside the roda, from the immediate need to understand in one quick intuitive flash the psychological structure of a total stranger who is going to play with us. - Nestor Capoeira
The Structure of a Roda
A typical roda is formed by a circle of capoeiristas and musicians. The capoeiristas take turns entering the circle to play the "game" of capoeira, while the musicians, positioned at the base of the circle, play traditional instruments like the berimbau, atabaque, and pandeiro. The energy and interaction within the roda are guided by the music and the call-and-response songs sung by the participants.
Rotation manner
One of the most striking differences you might observe in capoeira rodas is the manner in which the players rotate. The rotation styles, namely Dos por Dos and Compra Compra, significantly shape the dynamics of the game.
Dos por Dos
In some rodas, capoeiristas enter the circle two by two, which is referred to as Dos por Dos. The game continues until the mestre leading the roda signals the end with a chamada from the berimbau or until one of the players decides to stop and shakes hands with the other. At the conclusion of their game, the two players return to the pĂ© do berimbau (the "foot of the berimbau" â a crouched position in front of the gunga leading the roda), where they pay their respects to each other, the mestre, and the bateria (the ensemble of musicians), before exiting the roda to make way for the next two jogadores. Typically, the next players are the next two capoeiristas "in line," although sometimes the mestre may select two specific individuals they wish to see play. These new players then approach the foot of the berimbau, pay their respects, and await the mestre's signal to begin the game, which is indicated by the mestre lowering the berimbau between them.
Compra Compra!
The alternative rotation style is Compra Compra, which involves "buying into the game." Here, one new player enters the game, effectively replacing one of the existing players. For beginners, the Compra Compra style can be more complex than Dos por Dos, as it requires knowledge of how, with whom, and when to buy into the game. The specifics can vary even within a single roda, adding an extra layer of strategy and understanding to the capoeira experience.
Music and Rhythm
Music is the soul of the roda. The rhythm set by the berimbau, accompanied by the atabaque and pandeiro, dictates the pace and style of the game. Songs in the roda often tell stories, share historical events, or convey philosophical messages. The music not only energizes the participants but also maintains the structure and flow of the roda.
Rituals and Etiquette
Rituals and etiquette in the roda are deeply rooted in tradition. Before entering the roda, capoeiristas often seek permission from the leader or mestre. Respect for fellow practitioners is paramount, and certain gestures, like touching the ground before entering, are observed as a sign of humility and respect. The roda also follows a set of unwritten rules, ensuring fair play and maintaining the roda's integrity.
Within the roda, capoeira is played as a fluid and strategic game, blending martial arts, acrobatics, and dance. The objective is not to defeat the opponent but to outmaneuver them with skill and agility. The movements are continuous, reflecting the flow of the music, and capoeiristas must be adaptable and creative in their responses.
Dress Code
Each capoeira group has its own customs regarding what you should wear in the roda. The dress code can vary significantly:
Uniforms: Some groups require a specific uniform, while others do not. If you belong to a group with a uniform, it is customary to wear it even when attending rodas organized by other groups.
Footwear: Practices also vary when it comes to footwearâsome groups wear shoes, while others prefer going barefoot.
General Guidelines
Home Group: When attending a roda organized by your own group, follow whatever dress code is customary for your group.
Visiting Another Group: If your group has a uniform, it's generally expected that you wear it when visiting another group's roda.
No Uniform: If you don't have a uniform, long trousers are a mustânever show up in shorts! White trousers are a safe bet as white is traditional for many Afro-Brazilian cultural events.
Traditional White: Wearing white is often a good choice if youâre unsure, as itâs the traditional color for many Afro-Brazilian folkloric manifestations.
Specific Group Colors: In some Angola rodas, you might find participants wearing specific colors like black and yellow or no uniform at all.
To avoid standing out awkwardly, it's always best to try and find out the expected dress code in advance.
Continue reading: The Philosophy Behind Capoeira