ACSF brings high-quality, culturally authentic, and awe-inspiring Afro-Brazilian arts to the streets, schools, and stages of the Bay Area.

Programs center around Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian art created by enslaved Africans in Brazil in response to oppression and used to fight for freedom. Capoeira combines self-defense, dance, ritual, acrobatics, and music in a rhythmic dialogue of body, mind, and spirit. It’s internationally practiced and protected under UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Rooted in resilience, Capoeira’s history of uniting diverse populations in their quest for freedom and justice shapes ACSF’s mission and programs.

ACSF provides year-round arts education; cultural festivals and performances; artist exchange and residency opportunities; apprenticeships and artist employment; and classes for children, teens and adults in Capoeira, dance, music, and fitness—providing people opportunities to learn about, experience, and participate in art rooted in tradition.

Programs develop artistic and physical skills; cultivate and support cultural practitioners and next-generation artists; inspire cultural awareness, creative conflict resolution, and civic engagement; and foster health and cultural connectedness.

ACSF’s Capoeira Arts Center enlivens the Mission District, housing the performance company, hosting internationally attended cultural festivals, and providing daily instructional programs and affordable rental space to artists and organizations.

To remove barriers and encourage participation, ACSF provides:
— free and scaled fees;
— an inclusive, equitable, and safe place;
— culturally and socially relevant activities;
— skill and leadership development;
— improved wellness and consistent activity;
— social connection;
— civic and intergenerational engagement;
— opportunities to challenge limiting beliefs;
— multifaceted offerings for all levels/ages;
— outreach/activities in under-resourced communities;
— connection to world-renowned artists;
— leadership representing the communities served; and
— creative work spotlighting underrepresented artists and amplifying gender equity worldwide.