I understand that Capoeira's was originated from slaves people in Brazil, so it was disguised as a dance, and most moves could be done with shackled hands. Today's Capoeira still stays true to these principles.

Capoeira moves are "tricky" to an opponent and can easily surprise an unprepared opponent, and the kicks can be very powerful.

On the other hand it is less "direct" when compared to combat sports and oriental martial arts: it looks more like a dance than fighting moves. And AFAIK it has no sport/competition formats.

Thus the question: is fight effectiveness/personal defence an important goal for modern Capoeira, or is it to be considered mostly a performing art?

I understand that Capoeira's was originated from slave people in Brazil, so it was disguised as a dance, and most moves could be done with shackled hands. Today's Capoeira still stays true to these principles.

Capoeira moves are "tricky" to an opponent and can easily surprise an unprepared opponent, and the kicks can be very powerful.

On the other hand it is less "direct" when compared to combat sports and oriental martial arts: it looks more like a dance than fighting moves. And AFAIK it has no sport/competition formats.

Thus the question: is fight effectiveness/personal defense an important goal for modern Capoeira, or is it to be considered mostly a performing art?