Pastinha

Pastinha, born Manuel dos Reis Machado (1889–1981), was a Brazilian capoeira master who is widely regarded as one of the central figures in Capoeira Angola. Based in Salvador, Bahia, he dedicated his life to preserving and teaching the traditional, low-to-the-ground style that distinguishes Capoeira Angola from other capoeira forms. He became renowned for his deep knowledge of the tradition, including the songs, rhymes, berimbau rhythms, and the nuanced, ritualized nature of the game.

In the mid-20th century, Pastinha established a prominent capoeira school in Salvador that became a focal point for practitioners of Capoeira Angola. The center attracted students from across Brazil and abroad and played a key role in sustaining the repertoire, philosophy, and etiquette associated with the Angola style. Pastinha emphasized discipline, respect for elders, and the cultural dimensions of capoeira, treating the practice as a living art and a form of cultural memory.

Pastinha’s influence extended through a large lineage of students who continued teaching Capoeira Angola around the world. Among his notable students is Mestre João Grande, who helped bring the tradition to international audiences. Today, Pastinha’s name remains closely associated with Capoeira Angola and its preservation as a cultural practice of Brazil, with his legacy continuing in schools, performances, and recordings that document the traditional game and its heritage.