Capoeira Batuque Southbay

"Capoeira Batuque South Bay was my best choice for introducing myself in this art form. Mestra Minha Velha is an inspired woman. How she teaches Capoeira for us, students is being a fenomenal experience because she makes us feel confident, strong, and comfortable to accomplish the goal with the movements. Beyond it, she inspires everyone to find the wisdom in ourselves to recognize our own progress for our positive attitudes and commitment to excellence inside and outside of the studio."

"Mestra Minha is amazing. She takes her time with the students and they learn from her so quickly. She also encourages friendships in the class, which I think is very special about this place. I’m so thankful my daughter has found her passion for capoeira here."

"Capoeira Batuque South Bay is a great place for anyone to begin, as well as continue, their knowledge of this Brazilian art form. My son has been attending classes with Mestra Minha Velha (Dana), now, for several months and during this time I have seen improvements in his esteem, persevere thru new challenges, and an increase in his physical stamina, endurance, and flexibility. Not to mention, learning a new language and playing various instruments. One thing that sets this place apart from the rest is Dana’s commitment, not just to the physical and musical art form, but also introducing activities to increase citizen participation and advocacy efforts of various kinds. Unlike any other martial arts (speaking from experience, I had over 15 years of TKD training, along with a few others mixed in), capoeira seems to take on various meanings and applications depending on what stage of training you are in. Due to its many facets, true mastery takes years of commitment. She has definitely challenged my son to work on other aspects of life outside of capoeira (setting personal goals; giving back to the community; environmental awareness) all contributing to him becoming a very well-rounded citizen. As a parent, I feel very privileged that an opportunity such as this exists right here in our very own backyard."

"Best classes ever! Kids and adult classes. My two boys (second and fourth grade) have been taking Mestra Minha Velha's kids’ capoeira class since Fall 2021, a little more than one year. They have absolutely LOVED the experience. It was so much fun that I started following along as a Mom in the background … I was hooked, and am now in the adult class. I asked the kids what they thought I should write in the review, and they said: “fun, positive, active, exercise, cultural, language and music.” These words get right to the heart of what makes this class so amazing. Kids’ capoeira with Mestre Minha is FUN. My kids look forward to each class, as well as the end of quarter celebrations when they get all kinds of inspiration playing capoeira with Mestre’s advanced students. In addition to being an amazing capoeirista and musician, Mestre Minha is GREAT with kids. She is patient. She is funny. She is motivating. She is generous with her knowledge. Mestre teaches respect and commands the kids’ respect naturally. The kids love her. So do the adults! The class builds strength, control and coordination. My boys have a new perspective on what they bodies can do. They came into the class without any background in martial arts, gymnastics or dance, and now feel empowered by their ability to do handstands, cartwheels, kicks, rhythmic movement, etc. For my own part, I also love what an amazing workout each class is and how much stronger, flexible and confidant I feel. Coming out of the pandemic last year, the class was held outdoors. It was a safe and fun place to build friendships and community. Now the class is back in the studio, which means we can use mats and other awesome equipment. Doing Capoeira has given my children and I a new awareness of being part of the wider world. We love learning songs and commands in Portuguese. Singing together puts a smile on everyone’s face. And capoeira brings together the nicest bunch of people you’ll find anywhere in LA. I wholeheartedly recommend this class and can’t say enough nice things about it!"

"I have been training with Capoeira Batuque South Bay since 2015 and it has been an amazing experience! If you enjoiy learning a new martial art that challenges you mentally with physical achievement, then this is for you! It is a awesomebcommunity led by Mestra Minha Velha who guides you on a journey to help you open your abilities to contribute to Capoeira, from movement, to learning songs and music (in Portuguese) and instruments which all is a part of the game. Please check out this wonderful school!"