Mestre Sombra

Mestre Sombra, born Roberto Teles de Oliveira on February 6, 1941, in Santa Rosa de Lima, Sergipe, Brazil, is a respected figure in the world of capoeira. He founded the Association of Capoeira Senzala in Santos, São Paulo in 1974, after moving there from his native northeast in 1962. Mestre Sombra's style of capoeira, known as Capoeira from Senzala of Santos, emphasizes individuality and has influenced numerous students who have gone on to teach capoeira worldwide.

As a capoeira master, Mestre Sombra has made significant contributions to the art form over the past five decades. He has trained and certified hundreds of instructors and masters, including notable figures like Mestre Silvia and Mestre Marcos of the London School of Capoeira Herança. Mestre Sombra's work extends beyond teaching capoeira to include broader aspects of African Brazilian culture, cementing his status as a respected figure in the capoeira community.