- Contact: Aaron Ellison at aaroncherokeeellison@gmaill.com
About
Aaron “Cherokee” Ellison is a Chattanooga-based teaching artist and Capoeira educator. His Capoeira journey began with Comunidade de Capoeira Atlanta and continued through years of study with respected Capoeira masters, including Mestre Gulliver and his current mentor, Mestre Lazaro. In 2024, he traveled to Tucson, Arizona, where he received the rank of Instrutor.
As a contracted teaching artist with Art To Empower, Cherokee has taught Capoeira in schools, community centers, and community settings throughout Chattanooga. His students have performed at their schools, Barking Legs Theater, and Art 120’s We Make Festival. Through movement, music, and cultural learning, Cherokee uses Capoeira to build confidence, teamwork, creativity, and cultural awareness.
Program Overview
Through Capoeira residencies and performances, students explore an Afro-Brazilian art form that combines movement, music, culture, and community. Participants learn foundational Capoeira movements, traditional songs, and percussion while building confidence, teamwork, discipline, and cultural awareness. Programs may include demonstrations and culminating performances that share student learning with the broader community.
