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Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art form that was started over 450 years ago in response to the oppression of Africans who were brought to Brazil as slaves, has gained in popularity here in Tucson. We visit Capoeira Mandinga Tucson, where masters from Brazil, and the US recently convened for a week-long event highlighting this unique cultural tradition.

It’s what brings it all together: Sports in multi-cultural places

Hear about an Arizona community college's surprisingly international soccer roster, then get introduced to an afro-Brazilian martial art.
The unhoused often have to travel throughout the city looking to find safe places to settle for the night.

There is hope for the homeless at Sister Josè Women's Center.

Also on Arizona Spotlight: The holistic housing approach of "I Am You 360"; and 10-Minute Dramas returns with "It's Saturday".
Maddison Muraki of the Maricopa Maidens plays in the first annual Haymaker Fest baseball tournament in Gilbert, AZ. February 24, 2024.

We call it our Field of Dreams: Traveling across distances and time for sports

Will UA fans make the trip to their new Big 12 rival cities? Also, baseball played by the original rules.
The Marroney Theatre at night, post-renovation.

Post renovation, The Marroney Theatre offers more than ever.

Also on Arizona Spotlight: "All In for Autism 2024" is about sharing resources and building community; Chris Dashiell reviews the documentary "Body Parts"; and a 5th grader's emotional song for her mother.
Opera singer Morris Robinson (right) is interviewed by AZPM's Andy Bade (left).

The mutual respect is there: The intersection between athletes and music

We hear from a professional opera singer who was also an All-American football player in college.
Cuban-born Ninón Sevilla starred in the Mexican film "Víctimas del Pecado" in 1951.

"Víctimas del Pecado" makes a powerful return to the silver screen.

Also on Arizona Spotlight: How Stories Change Lives - Social Venture Partners "Fast Pitch" offers opportunities for local non-profits; and Mel Blumenthal shares a story about being sneaky on a German train.

We take the risk because we love what we do: From rodeo to fandom heartbreak

Rodeo in Arizona, from its roots to its place as a collegiate sport. Plus a trip to the Pac 12 basketball tournament.
People line up to try and land an old tire on the BICAS cactus.

I’m taking this way too seriously as an adult: The growth of mountain biking in Arizona

In two very different stories about one of America's fastest-growing sports, we head to a 24-hour mountain bike relay race. Then we talk to some of the people behind a documentary about spreading mountain biking on the Navajo Nation.
Alex Bowman sits in his car during a practice session for the Daytona 500 auto race at Daytona International Speedway, Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022.

The Buzz: Previewing Season 2 of More Than a Game

AZPM's sports podcast returns with more of the greatest sports stories you've never heard.
Vicki Lewis starring as Maria Callas in Arizona Theatre Company's production of "Master Class"

The life and loves of virtuoso Maria Callas explored in the play "Master Class".

Also on Arizona Spotlight: The International Uranium Film Festival returns to Tucson; the comedy of Elliot Glicksman; and "Stories That Soar!" looks at how children cope with depression.
Alex Bowman sits in his car during a practice session for the Daytona 500 auto race at Daytona International Speedway, Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022.

They have a passion for it: Meet a pair of Tucson-born professional athletes

Different sports, different generation, but both Alex Bowman and Eddie Leon are among the top athletes Tucson has ever produced.
The cover of the collaborative novel "Fourteen Days" released in February, 2024.

Bestselling authors unite to oppose book banning through an intriguing collaboration.

Also on Arizona Spotlight: Water in Utah is draining Laker Powell; How Ehrenberg, Arizona got its name; and seeing color for the first time.

A Show about Healing

Spiritually, Physically, Mentally, and Emotionally.
Painting by Kristin Harvey.

Celebrating Sonoran beauty through both science and art.

Also on Arizona Spotlight: Arizona Theatre Company reveals "Intimate Apparel", starring Tracey N. Bonner, directed by Oz Scott.
A collage of portraits from the gallery show "Face 2 Face", created by artists from ArtWorks and students from the University of Arizona’s Art and Visual Education program.

What it is to see, and be seen... ArtWorks explores the portrait in "Face 2 Face".

Also on Arizona Spotlight: The inspiring story of Shirley Chisholm on stage; and an ambitious new musical called "Alice by Heart".
A view from the Atascosa Borderlands in the Coronado National Forest.

Atascosa Borderlands: Connecting the land, the wildlife, and the people.

Also on Arizona Spotlight: Dr. Jasleen Chhatwal on helping loved ones survive dark times; and, how do YOU pronounce "Sahuarita"?

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