The group Filhos de Angola or Children of Angola originates from Salvador, Bahia, the heartland of capoeira in North-Eastern Brazil.

Mestre Roberval and Mestre Laercio, who founded the group in 1981 have dedicated most of their lives to preserving and promoting this rich art.

Now, thanks to their efforts, Filhos de Angola is now highly regarded in Salvador, where Mestre Roberval leads the group. Likewise, Mestre Laercio's work has gained a respected name for Filhos de Angola in Europe.  He now lives in Berlin where he is also a well-known master of Afro-Brazilian dance.

Bristol Treinels

Ben has seven years experience in capoeira, and has spent extensive time in Salvador training with Filhos de Angola and playing in rodas around the city.  He is also a digital artist and works as a developer for a digital media studio. 

Bob has ten years experience in capoeira and is currently reponsible for running various capoeira projects for children and young people.  He is also a film-maker.

Both teachers have been accredited as Treinels by Mestres Roberval and Laercio and they seek to continue the rich traditions of Capoeira Angola as they were taught by the masters.

Mestres Roberval and Laercio regularly visit the group, and both teachers and students participate every year in a number of national and international events.  Over the years we have worked with The BBC, The Eden Project, Glastonbury Festival, Sunrise Festival, Green Man and countless other community groups, schools and festivals.  If you are interested in booking us to perform at an event, please click here

Filhos de Angola groups worldwide endeavour to participate in projects working with children and young people.  We are currently running numerous projects around Bristol and the South West, and our sister group in Brighton has also run a successful childrens' groups for many years. 

If you're interested in a capoeira project for children or young people, please contact ben@filhosdeangola.co.uk