Mestre Curisco

Mestre Curisco was born in Ipatinga City, Brazil. He began teaching Capoeira in Seattle four years ago at the request of a small group of students. Since his arrival, this original group of five students has grown into an internationally renowned school, Capoeira Malês. Mestre Curisco means "Master Lightning", his students call him Mestre.

Mestre Curisco first learned of Capoeira when he was five years old. Mestre's father, Gerson Frias, played Old School Capoeira in the mid-fifties and he introduced his son to some basic moves. Gerson was unable to spend much time instructing Mestre because he worked long hours in a local mill supporting his eight sons and daughters.

When Mestre was 11 a Capoeira studio opened in his neighborhood. He began formally studying the art which had captivated him since his early childhood. Mestre graduated to the level of "professor" at the age of 16. He founded his first studio in front of his mother’s house, which he still owns. He graduated to the level of Mestre in 2000.

While still living in Brazil, Mestre participated in a project developed by the local government, teaching and training foster children. Many of them turned away from drugs and 'street life'… and today many are still Capoeiristas.

Mestre first came to North America in 1996 after being invited to participate in an International Capoeira event in Vancouver, Canada. He spent a month teaching and then returned to Brazil. In 1997 he returned to North America, providing Capoeira instruction, and participating inshows and performances throughout Canada for a year.

In 1999 Mestre traveled to The United States to participate in an International Capoeira event held at the University of Washington. Following this he began teaching Capoeira in Seattle. He taught many workshops, and participated in many Batizados and other important cultural events, such as Brazil Fest and the Folk Life festival. In 2001 Mestre founded the capoeira school Quilombo do Queimado.

Today Mestre Curisco leads Capoeira Malês providing the opportunity for the greater Seattle community to learn about Brazilian culture and the art of Capoeira. Mestre has been learning and teaching Capoeira for over 15 years. He loves to teach and is thankful to his family and students who have supported him. His work is known in many places around the world, such as Brazil, Mexico, The United States, Canada and Europe.

Mestre Curisco stresses discipline, humility, and self-motivation. He is dedicated to bringing the roots of Brazilian Capoeira to his students. Capoeira Malês is involved with many community programs such as the Seattle Boys and Girls club, Seattle Public Schools, and the Bellevue Community Center. Capoeira provides building blocks which can enable a well-balanced life, helping many people gain more respect for themselves and others.