Even after a month immersed in Brazil, it wasn’t until the Balispirit Festival that the captivating Brazilian dance known as Maculele was first encountered. This dynamic art form, often referred to as Brazilian Dance Fighting, immediately sparked curiosity about its roots and unique expression.
There are varied narratives surrounding the origins of Maculele. One compelling story traces back to the 350 years of slavery in Brazil. During this dark period, enslaved people on sugarcane plantations reportedly developed Maculele as a form of cathartic release. Utilizing machetes, the very tools of their forced labor, they transformed their pent-up anger and frustration into a powerful, rhythmic game. This historical context adds a layer of depth to understanding Maculele as more than just a dance.
Today, as witnessed at the Balispirit Festival, Maculele manifests less as outright combat and more as a beautifully choreographed dance. Yet, it retains a fiery energy that ignites the imagination, even in novices. The inherent creativity within Maculele encourages exploration of the dialogue between internal rhythm and external music, fostering a unique connection to both the art form and oneself.
In a workshop led by Mestre Bira, participants were introduced to the fundamentals of Maculele. Armed with grimas, sticks as long as forearms and thick in diameter, it became clear that these tools were not merely for striking. The grimas are integral instruments of rhythm, facilitating movement with a partner in sync with the atabaque drumbeats. Mestre Bira guided the class through basic steps: three beats of backward and forward movement with a fixed right leg, culminating in a grima strike on the fourth beat. As comfort levels grew with the rhythm’s sway, more intricate moves were introduced. One such move challenged participants to alternate knee drops to the ground and return to standing without disrupting the beat. Another involved turning to re-engage with a partner, stick to stick, perfectly timed. Maculele demanded both focused attention and creative expression. Soon, pairs found themselves in the center of the Roda, sticks clashing and smiles radiating.
The workshop culminated in a Samba de Roda, where an energetic eight-year-old dancer captivated the audience, outshining even seasoned instructors with his impressive skills and infectious enthusiasm.
Maculele, this compelling Brazilian dance fighting style, is undeniably captivating. It’s a vibrant art form that blends history, rhythm, and movement into a powerful and engaging experience.
