The Studio

Francisco “Mauricinho” Rocha is the head instructor of Capoeira Brasil Arizona, bringing over a decade of dedication to the art of Capoeira.  His Capoeira journey has been guided from the beginning under the mentorship of Formanda Borboleta, whose teachings have shaped his style, discipline, and philosophy.  In addition, Mauricinho has traveled to Niterói, Brazil, to study directly with Mestre Paulinho, the founder of Capoeira Brasil, gaining firsthand experience in the basics and fundamentals of the art from its roots.  Over the years, he has performed, assisted, and been invited to teach and share his knowledge at national and international Capoeira events, building connections with diverse capoeiristas worldwide. As a certified coach for VMB (Volta do Mundo Bambas), Mauricinho blends modern coaching practices with traditional Capoeira pedagogy, creating an environment that promotes growth, confidence, and cultural appreciation. 

Through his leadership, Capoeira Brasil Arizona has become a space where students of all ages and backgrounds can discover strength, confidence, and connection.

In addition to teaching regular classes, Mauricinho organizes events, workshops, and annual batizados that bring together capoeiristas from across the country and abroad. His mission is to create a welcoming environment where each student can progress at their own pace while contributing to the roda with their unique energy and axé.

“Capoeira is a game, a fight, a dance, and a way of life. In every roda, we learn not just about movement, but about ourselves and each other.” – Instructor Mauricinho

Founder of Capoeira Brasil Arizona, Formanda Borboleta has taught Capoeira for over 20 years in the valley.

Borboleta,  also known as Angelique Starks, started her physical career as a showgirl for David Cassidy's acclaimed Las Vegas production "EFX."  Shortly afterward, she discovered the art of Capoeira while living in New York. She began training under the instruction of Mestre Caxias as well as under the supervision of Mestre Boneco in Los Angeles. Embracing her newfound passion, Borboleta excelled quickly over the years, and her love and devotion to the art soon reached a level where she was ready to begin teaching students of her own.  Returning to the state  where she was born and raised, Borboleta currently supervises Arizona's  leading Capoeira institution, Grupo Capoeira Brasil Arizona

Native to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Mestre Caxias(Alex Filadelfo), has been studying, practising & playing Capoeira for more than 30 years. He is the founder of the New York branch of Grupo Capoeira Brasil where he taught for 17 years. During his time in NYC, Mestre Caxias taught capoeira at various schools and universities and has been a guest teacher in various international capoeira festivals throughout the world.

Mestre Caxias has also performed in famous art venues, such as the Lincoln Center in NYC. Mestre Caxias established additional branches for his group in various cities in the US as well as Pune in India and Natal in the northeast of Brazil.

In 2010, Mestre Caxias moved to the UAE and founded Capoeira Arte Brasil Organization and ever since he has been dedicated to spreading this unique sport all over town. Mestre Caxias devotes all his mornings to teaching in various schools, as part of physical education or after school programs. Mestre Caxias is very committed in promoting a healthy lifestyle by teaching how children and adults can get fit while having fun.