Played during Capoeira, the Berimbau is a musical bow of African origin and is often described as the soul of the art form. The rhythm of the berimbau dictates the pace and intensity of the game. The faster it plays, the faster the capoeirista moves.

Disguised as dance while incorporating martial technique, Capoeira emerged in Brazil as a form of self-defence among Africans enslaved by Portuguese colonisers from the sixteenth century onwards. Through Capoeira, many enslaved people resisted their conditions, escaped captivity, and formed autonomous communities known as Quilombos, beyond colonial control.

Rooted in Brazil and performed as far away as Sydney, Afro Brasil Journey was an event that brought together Capoeira, the Maracatu Ubuntu Brazilian percussion group, and an Umbanda collective. Together, they wove a powerful tapestry honouring Afro-Brazilian ancestors who sang, danced, and fought for dignity and freedom under colonial oppression.

Supported by Aboriginal dance theatre, the event raised over $1,000—contributing directly to the continuation of cultural activities in Redfern, a community that has supported artistic and cultural expression since 1979.