For over 40 years Los Pleneros de la 21 (LP21) has educated new generations across NYC and beyond about the rich cultural history and dynamic performance techniques behind the Afro-Puerto Rican music and dance traditions known as Bomba and Plena. These cultural expressions can teach individuals of all ages and backgrounds the values of self-expression, cultural awareness, individual identity and collective understanding. Students can discover these cultural expressions for the first time, or connect with traditions rooted in their own ancestral heritage previously unknown to them.

Through our Bomba and Plena In the School program (K-12), LP21 brings these essential cultural arts expressions into the school environment via residencies, workshops and assemblies. Alternatively, Bomba and Plena In the House workshops bring students into the artists’ own cultural spaces in LP21’s headquarters in the Julia de Burgos Cultural Center, right in the heart of El Barrio in Spanish Harlem where these traditions live. Both programs are customizable to cater to your individual school’s needs, interests, populations and contexts.

In the House is subsidized especially for NYC K-12 schools to provide quality arts enrichment experiences at affordable rates, including during school hours and after school/weekend programs. These workshops are a perfect fit for schools who receive funding where a portion is required to spend on well-rounded educational opportunities.

PLEASE NOTE: In-The-House (ITH) workshops are designed exclusively for NYC schools, students, and educational groups. Schools or groups from outside New York City may inquire about special sessions and rates.

Engaging in these artistic disciplines helps children improve their physical coordination and cognitive abilities, as rhythm and movement require both mental and physical coordination. Additionally, music and dance classes offer a constructive outlet for emotions, allowing children to express themselves in ways that words alone might not capture. Through collaboration in group settings, they also learn teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

click below to reserve in the house (ITH) workshop dates for your school group

Want to learn more ABOUT In THe house?

Just like the vibrant diversity in Puerto Rico, there are a myriad of dances and rhythms in Bomba and Plena. In these new ITH workshops, the LP21 ensemble breaks down many of the instruments, rhythms, and concepts traditional to Bomba and Plena. Topics include breaking down rhythms like Sicá and Yubá, as well as discussing the significance of Call-and-Response in the genres. Sessions will also introduce students to using their bodies to tell stories, and will challenge them to get up and tell some of their own! Also featured in these workshops are full performances from LP21 including, “Bombón,” “Tilín,” and “Mirta se Va,” along with many more!

Need to keep things virtual? No problem - LP21 is excited to add new comprehensive online learning materials for virtual sessions of In the House!

See a short preview of in the house in action and read our info sheet for more details!

LP21’s Bomba and Plena In the House events are made possible in part by public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs and generous contributions from individuals like you!

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You understand that all photography, filming and/or recording will be done in reliance on this consent. If you do not agree to the foregoing, please do not enter the event premises.