Renato Leao / Fato In Dance
A Deliberate Purpose in Japan After establishing performing careers with premier companies in Brazil and gaining international recognition, I recognized a profound need to evolve my artistic expression in a new cultural environment. Japan, a nation that embodies discipline, organizational precision, and a deep reverence for the arts, was my chosen destination. I see immense potential here to pioneer a new, fusion-based methodology. I chose the Kansai region specifically for its unique cultural heritage and its forward-looking potential for artistic growth.
Discipline Creates Freedom My pedagogical philosophy is unwavering. Whether instructing beginners or seasoned professionals, I maintain the same rigorous standards. My focus is on anatomical understanding, practical mastery of technique, and relentless growth. A student must experience a tangible transformation from entering the studio to leaving it — achieving greater control, deeper confidence, and superior movement quality. That is my ultimate objective.
Born in São Paulo, Brazil. Renato underwent rigorous classical training from a young age in ballet, modern dance, contemporary dance, jazz, and Latin styles, as well as Capoeira, making his debut as a professional dancer at age 20.
After refining his artistry at the Martha Graham School and the Joffrey Ballet School in New York, he performed as a principal dancer with companies including Cisne Negro Dance Company and Emproarte Theatre Ballet. In 1992, he founded Fato Cia De Dança, leading productions and tours spanning Brazil, Europe, and Asia. As a choreographer, he earned five Gold Awards at the USA International IDC Dance Challenge in New York.
In 2001, he performed and choreographed for a Brazilian Dance Show Asia Tour across Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and India. Based in the Kansai region of Japan since 2005, he has served as a professional dance instructor for Universal Studios Japan (USJ) and Cirque du Soleil, and as a guest instructor and choreographer for OSK Nippon Revue, Hiroko Mizuno Ballet, Yasuda Ballet School, and other prestigious organizations. Through decades of dedicated Capoeira practice, he has attained the rank of "Mestre" — the highest certification recognized by the Brazilian Capoeira Association. He now imparts his original methodology that bridges elite dance technique with the raw power of the Capoeira tradition.
Many floorwork techniques in modern contemporary dance trace their origins to "Capoeira." The significance of training under Renato Leao — a "Mestre" of the highest rank from Brazil — is profound.
Rather than merely mimicking derivative techniques, you will master the original method that fundamentally builds core strength, dynamic balance, spatial agility, and fluid grace. This is a rare opportunity to transform your expressive capability from its very foundation.
Instruction as an essential foundation to support all forms of movement. Focus on anatomical alignment, core stability, and absolute control to build a versatile, functional body.
TIME Every Friday 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
VENUE Studio Umeda PLUS+culture
Full class details are currently being prepared. We welcome dancers of all skill levels.
TIME Every Saturday (Time TBA)
VENUE Kamimiyagawa Culture Center (Ashiya)
Information regarding the Ashiya studio sessions is coming soon.
Elegant foundational training focusing on discipline and core alignment, essential for all forms of dance.
Request private sessions, specialized workshops, or studio visits across the region.
Inquiries for choreography, artistic direction, stage productions, or collaborations.