Page "Capoeira" Paragraph 44

While it may seem like a break time or a dance, the chamada is actually both a trap and a test, as the caller is just watching to see if the opponent will let his guard down so she can perform a takedown or a strike.

It is a critical situation, because both players are vulnerable due to the close proximity and potential for a surprise attack.

It's also a tool for experienced practitioners and masters of the art to test a student's awareness and demonstrate when the student left herself open to attack.