Facilitator: Sonny Batata

When: Tuesdays 6:30pm-8pm

Cost: FREE* 

*Registration/RSVP is required via the link or scheduler on this page

Description: Esgrima de Machete is an Afro-Colombian martial and cultural art that dates back to the Colombian struggle for Independence from Spain and later the landowners that oppressed enslaved peoples. It is an elegant art of machete fencing that uses rhythm, timing, distance to out skill an opponent. It increases mental acuity, flexibility and dexterity.

What to expect: Participants will learn the foundational exercises and sequences to utilize and move with armaments (sticks) in class. They will also learn some of the history of the art and meet our maestro Miguel Lourido at the culminating festival this summer 2024. 

Bio: Arthur "Sonny" Batata is one of two practitioners and instructors of Esgrima de Machete, he has been teaching in the Los Angeles area since 2018. The idea of cultural exchange has been his focus since the inception of the offering in collaboration with Miguel Lourido. 

Accessibility note: The practice can be physically rigorous, mostly standing in a low stance, squatting, and jumping. We will be using sticks as armaments or wooden reproductions of machetes. 

The space is located on the 2nd floor with one flight of stairs directly up from the entrance. Elevator access is available; please email pieterpasd@gmail.com prior to event if you will be using it. The elevator is spacious enough for any mobility device and the 2nd floor space is free of any steps or mobility barriers. There are no automated doors in the building.

There are two all-gender restrooms with three private stalls and a urinal. Each restroom has one stall accessible for mobility device users.

Free parking is available directly behind our building at 2412 Workman Street. There are two additional free city lots south of Broadway on Workman Street. There is also ample metered parking in the neighborhood, free after 6pm or 8pm, depending on the street.

Have questions or need additional accommodations? Email pieterpasd@gmail.com and we will do our best to assist you.

This programming is made possible in part by a grant from the California Arts Council