Juan Usera and the Sambuco Tribe brought Caribeando to the Hostos Center stage; here they take the same material outdoors and hand it to whoever shows up. Two hours of bomba, plena, guaracha, cha-cha-cha and merengue, taught from the rhythm up, with call-and-response doing most of the teaching. It happens beside the Enslaved African and Kingsbridge Burial Ground, which gives the African roots of these forms a very specific address.
What to expect
Find the group behind the tennis courts, next to the burial ground site, where the drummers set up and a circle forms. Instruction is hands-on and layered: rhythms first, then steps, then the call-and-response that ties the two together, with no separation between the experienced and the first-timers. Expect to be moving rather than seated.
Good to know
- RSVP through the Eventbrite link on the NYC Parks listing — it is free, but the organizers count heads.
- The 1 train to Van Cortlandt Park–242nd Street puts you at the park's southwest corner.
- Parking is available in the Van Cortlandt Golf Lot; driving inside the park is not allowed.
- The workshop meets behind the tennis courts, so leave extra minutes to walk in from whichever entrance you use.
- All ages and abilities are welcome — no dance background and no partner required.
- It runs outdoors on grass, so flat shoes beat anything with a heel.
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Common questions
Is it free?
Yes. NYC Parks lists it as free with an Eventbrite RSVP. The series is funded by the NYC Green Fund Grassroots Grant Program and by public funds from the Department of Cultural Affairs with the City Council.
Do I need dance experience?
No. The workshop is pitched at all ages, abilities and skill levels, and it starts from the basic rhythms and steps.
Where in Van Cortlandt Park does it happen?
Next to the Enslaved African and Kingsbridge Burial Ground, behind the tennis courts. Park in the Van Cortlandt Golf Lot — no driving is permitted inside the park.
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