Jorge Egidio dos Santos, also known as Mestre Jogo de Dentro, holds a significant place in the world of Capoeira. He was born in Alagoinhas, Bahia, on April 6, 1965. His journey in the captivating art of capoeira commenced in 1982 within the walls of the fort of Santo Antonio in the city of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. It was in the esteemed academy of Mestre Joao Pequeno that he took his first steps in this rich martial art form.
After a year of dedicated training, Jorge Egidio dos Santos received the honor of being baptized by Mestre Joao Grande, a pivotal figure in the world of Capoeira. It was during this significant event that he was bestowed with the moniker “Jogo de Dentro,” which translates to “inside game,” a testament to his unparalleled mastery of this fundamental aspect of Capoeira Angola.
The influence of Mestre Jogo de Dentro extends far beyond his skill in Capoeira. His deep knowledge and dedication to the art form have resonated with students and enthusiasts alike, inspiring a new generation to appreciate and embrace the traditions of Capoeira. His impact in preserving and promoting the heritage of Capoeira Angola is truly commendable, shaping the legacy of this art for years to come.
In 1986, Mestre Joao Pequeno entrusted him with the crucial responsibility of overseeing the classes and rodas at his academy during his absence. With dedication and commitment, he commenced teaching classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays before heading to his job at the supermarket, where he diligently worked for five years. It wasn’t until 1989 that he made a pivotal decision to leave his job and wholeheartedly immerse himself in the world of capoeira angola. Embracing this new chapter, he continued to collaborate with his master at the academy, further honing his skills and contributing significantly to the art form.
The turning point in his journey arrived in 1990 when he was bestowed with the esteemed title of contra mestre in recognition of his unwavering dedication and exceptional contributions to capoeira angola. This significant milestone not only acknowledged his prowess and commitment but also solidified his position within the capoeira community. As the year drew to a close, another significant transition unfolded as Mestre Joao Grande departed to teach in the USA. This marked a profound shift, leaving behind a group of eager students whom he had been instructing at the Miguel Santana Theater in Pelourinho.
This period of evolution and transition laid the foundation for his influential role within the capoeira angola landscape, setting the stage for his continued leadership and mentorship in the years to come.
Jogo de Dentro ended up replacing M. Joao Grande as the teacher of that group, and this group was named “Heranca de Pastinha” (Pastinha’s heritage) and after some changes, the group was named “Semente do jogo de Angola” (seed of the angola game).
In 1994, a significant moment arrived in his journey within the capoeira angola tradition. It was on February 27th of that year when he received the great honor of being appointed as a mestre by the esteemed João Pequeno. This event marked a crucial milestone in his dedication and skill within the practice of capoeira angola, signifying the culmination of years of discipline, perseverance, and respect for the art form.
The title of mestre is not simply bestowed upon anyone; it is a recognition of profound expertise, knowledge, and embodiment of the capoeira angola tradition. Such an accolade speaks volumes about his commitment to this cultural expression, as well as his embodiment of its values and principles.
In 1996, after years of dedicated practice and teaching in Bahia, our protagonist made the bold decision to relocate to the state of Sao Paulo. This move marked a new chapter in his journey with capoeira angola, as he sought to further expand its reach and influence. Over the course of 12 years, he devoted himself to this mission, leaving behind capable and dedicated disciples to carry on the legacy he had established in Sao Paulo.
His return to Salvador in 2007 was a homecoming filled with purpose and renewed commitment. Taking up the mantle of leadership once more, he embraced the responsibilities associated with guiding the capoeira angola group in Salvador and its surrounding suburbs, particularly in the bairro do Calafate. It is in this vibrant community that the group has fervently engaged in meaningful work with children and adolescents, leveraging the transformative power of capoeira as a tool for empowerment and positive change. This enduring dedication to both the art form and the community stands as a testament to his unwavering passion and vision for a better tomorrow through capoeira angola.
Today, in addition to his frequent travels abroad for teaching and promoting capoeira angola, he is realizing an old dream of building an official center for the group in the isle of Caixa Pregos near the city of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. This initiative represents a significant milestone in the life of this esteemed individual, marking the culmination of years of dedication and hard work. The center will serve as a focal point for preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of capoeira angola, offering a space for practitioners to convene, learn, and perpetuate this traditional art form. Its strategic location in the isle of Caixa Pregos near the vibrant city of Salvador, Bahia, further reinforces its potential as a hub for not only local but also international enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community and shared passion. The realization of this long-cherished aspiration is a testament to the unwavering commitment and vision of this influential figure, reflecting the profound impact of their efforts on the global capoeira angola community.
Below is a very good Documentray where M. Jogo de Dentro talks about Capoeira Angola. I knw you capoeira lovers out there will love it, if you speak portuguese that is.
If you don’t, you should learn it.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 
