Auckland Axé weekend
by Michele Coelho
The week is finally over.
There is no waking up early or fighting traffic to get to uni on time.
So what do you do in these precious moments of freedom? Stay home watching TV? Hell no. It’s the weekend, you should celebrate!
Brazilian culture is known for its desire and ability to celebrate ALL THE TIME.
So, here is a good option for your boring weekend.
Starting on Friday night, the South American Brazilian Auckland Axé Weekend event is due to come about for the whole weekend (28-30 September).
The cultural event is organised by two NZ groups involved in two different areas of Brazilian culture: AK Samba and Capoeira Mandinga Aotearoa.
AK Samba is a percussion group formed four years ago by kiwis who fell in love with the samba rhythm as they travelled around Brazil.
Capoeira Mandinga Aotearoa is a capoeira school which teaches the fighting art in many spots around NZ such as Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and others.
Capoeira originated in Africa and was brought to Brazil by Africans as they worked as slaves in the country. It integrates music, movement, gymnastics, theatrics and play.
The event promises to be a good sample of the loud and exciting events in Brazil.
But don’t think you’ll go there just to watch.
Getting involved is almost mandatory and you might even find out that you have a special talent for the South American style.
The three-day event will showcase workshops in samba percussion, capoeira, and many other Brazilian dancing and music styles.
A party, the Brazilian favourite, will also be held on the second day, Saturday September 29, at 10 pm.
Groups performing at the party are Baque Virando, AKSamba, Capoeira Mandinga Aotearoa and DJ Bobby Brazuka.
The event will take place at Mt Albert Community Centre starting on Friday, September 28 at 6:30 pm.
Those who attend can choose to buy individual tickets for each workshop, or opt for a weekend pass.