HI. I’M JOHN ASHTON.

Since I put the “Mission Statement” of this website in the side bar and on the home page, I thought I would use this page to tell you about my history in this art, and why I practice..

Well guys, here we go.

The search for knowledge and mastery often leads us back in time, to the first spark of inspiration that ignited our passion. My journey with capoeira began long before I even knew its name.

The fusion of strength, agility, and rhythm in capoeira captivated me from the moment I witnessed its movements in the classic movie, “The Mighty Quinn”.

The realization that those captivating sequences were indeed the art of capoeira felt like uncovering a hidden treasure, a long-awaited revelation that connected me to this ancient practice in a new light. And to learn years that those graceful and powerful movements were choreographed by the talented Cedric Adams, one of the first practicioners of this artform in the US, adds another layer of depth to my connection with this art form.

The first time I saw capoeira actually mentioned in a movie was this old movie called ROOFTOPS.

Since then I was hooked.

Click HERE if you want to watch these movies.

I wanted to find a school, but this was the late 80’s, there were no schools where I lived, no such thing as internet, and I couldn’t find anything in the yellow pages.

I was out of luck. Until…

In 1989, Panther Productions embarked on an ambitious project to produce 8 VHS tapes dedicated to Capoeira. This endeavor aimed to spread awareness and knowledge about Capoeira, bringing its rich cultural heritage to a global audience.

Foundational to the development of Capoeira, these VHS tapes became a valuable resource for enthusiasts and practitioners alike. My personal connection to these tapes, bought in the mid-90s, reflects the enduring impact of Panther Productions’ initiative.

And I also learned Capoeira by exploring various video sources, such as movies, travel shows, and commercials,

And I must have watched the movie Only the Strong about a thousand times…

But I stopped practicing, because I had nobody to practice or play with.

Fast forward a few years, I had given up on learning capoeira, and started learning another fascinatingly beautiful, and deadly martial art called Pencak Silat: a martial art deeply rooted in the traditions of Indonesia.

The dynamic movements of Pencak Silat reignited my passion for martial arts, introducing me to a diverse array of techniques and cultural connections that inspired me both physically and mentally. The rich history behind each maneuver captivated my interest, as I delved deeper into its origins and philosophies, allowing me to appreciate the art form on a more profound level. Simultaneously, my connection to capoeira deepened when I began studying under Charles Williams in September 2014.

The photograph above captures a pivotal moment in my capoeira journey – my very first class with Charles Williams. It was a serendipitous day; I was on my way to the Griffith Park observatory when I spotted him across the street, effortlessly playing the berimbau that would later become a symbol of inspiration and guidance for me. As I approached him, little did I know that this chance encounter would mark the beginning of an incredible mentorship. He graciously shared his musical expertise with me, and in that moment, I realized that he was destined to be my mentor and guide in the captivating world of capoeira.

His exceptional skill and unique teaching style created an environment that fostered not only learning but also personal growth. In addition to mastering various capoeira techniques, I was drawn into the vibrant culture surrounding this martial art, learning about its music, traditions, and the communal spirit that defines it. Charles became not only my teacher but also my guide in this immersive practice, encouraging me to explore my own potential and embrace the joy that comes from movement and expression within these martial arts.

It’s truly fascinating to have so much to say about someone, especially a teacher who has made a significant impact not only in the classroom but also in the lives of countless students. There are countless qualities and experiences that could be shared, each contributing to a rich and comprehensive portrait of their dedication and passion for education. This teacher possesses an unwavering commitment to their students’ growth, fostering an environment where curiosity flourishes and individual talents are nurtured. From inspiring lessons that ignite a love for learning to offering invaluable guidance during challenging times, their influence reaches far beyond academic achievements. The countless hours spent preparing engaging materials and the compassion shown in understanding each student’s unique challenges only highlight the incredible depth of their impact. Every interaction they have creates a ripple effect, shaping future leaders and instilling in them the values of resilience and perseverance.

The influence of educators is profound and multifaceted, as their lessons and wisdom serve as both educational content and meaningful life lessons that resonate throughout our lives. Their guidance not only fosters curiosity and a passion for knowledge but also instills essential values such as empathy, resilience, and critical thinking, which are vital in navigating the complexities of the modern world. By shaping our experiences and life trajectories, they help us develop a sense of purpose and direction that can significantly influence our future choices. Recognizing their impact underscores how they enrich our understanding of the world, broaden our perspectives, and provide us with the confidence needed to explore our intellectual potential. Furthermore, these dedicated individuals often become role models, demonstrating the importance of lifelong learning and inspiring us to pursue our dreams and aspirations with vigor.

Additionally, I created a series of webpages called, “THE TAO” of Charles Williams, which delves into his philosophies and contributions. If you want to know more about him and his thought-provoking ideas, just click HERE to check it out.

I will tell you all about everyone else else I train with in the NEXT PAGE.

This is the story of my passionate and enduring love affair with Capoeira Angola. This captivating and culturally rich art form has become the focal point of my life, permeating every aspect of my being and shaping my identity in profound ways. It is not merely a dance or a martial art; it embodies a way of living that embraces rhythm, community, and history. Each movement tells a story, and each gathering is a celebration of our shared heritage and the struggles of our ancestors. Regardless of the paths I tread in my journey through life, whether through the vibrant streets of my city or the tranquil spaces of my solitude, I am committed to remaining an angoleiro, even as I transcend into the realms beyond mortal existence.