Why Capoeira Angola? Young men and women in the program discover a discipline that allows them to express themselves artistically in a way that also allows them to channel pent-up emotions in a positive direction. They discover an art form that combines dance, non-contact fighting movements, music, song, rhythm, theatrical improvisation and more. To perform Capoeira proficiently, students must learn both the ways in which the human body can move and express itself, and the discipline needed to control those movements. As classes proceed, the students open up and express their inner-most emotions, while at the same time creating movement that is beautiful and artistic. Gradually, students learn the much-needed skills of self-discipline, respect for others, tolerance and the joys of cooperation, all which transfer into their daily lives. About Free Angola Capoeira Society in Austin, TX In 1999 Daré Layssard found Capoeira Angola and began training as a student and has traveled to learn with the great masters of his art. Daré is now a professor in the art, and is respected as a quality practitioner of the art by his peers. By maintaining the highest of artistic standards of implementation, Daré’ has been giving the blessings of his masters to teach the ancient art of Capoeira Angola. In February of 2005, he began teaching Capoeira to youth in AISD and adults at the YMCA in Northeast Austin. Daré instructs students in the dance fight movements song instrument playing and construction as well as the history, philosophies and traditions of Capoeira Angola. He uses Capoeira for the much needed skills of self-discipline, respect for others, tolerance, and the joys of cooperation all which transform into their daily lives. Students learn the cultural history of an art form in which Africans developed as a physical and artistic discipline that allowed them individual expression, Capoeira has a rich cultural history. Project Abundant Life began its Capoeira programming in February of 2005, and has worked hard to maintain the highest of artistic standards in the implementation of its classes and performances.