BACHATA POETICS
An Afternoon of Poetry, History, and Dance
In celebration of National Poetry Month in April, join us for an immersive celebration of Dominican bachata, a genre born in working-class neighborhoods and shaped by themes of love, longing, and everyday life. Through spoken word, music, and movement, we’ll explore stories of migration, struggle, and resilience.
WHEN:
Tuesday, April 14
Bachata Poetry Performance | 1:30 PM
Bachata Dance Class | 2:45 PM
WHERE:
Hostos Research Center (Performance)
Dance Studio (Dance Class)
At the heart of the program is a bachata poetry performance led by queer Bronx-based Dominican poet Scarlet Gómez, the event’s co-organizer, alongside Stephanie Pacheco, the 2024–2025 National Youth Poet Laureate and BMCC student, and Yoseli Castillo, a bilingual Afro-Dominican lesbian poet, educator, and activist. Together, their voices bring rhythm to memory and verse to lived experience.
The performance will be further grounded by a special historical narration from Dr. Wilfredo José Burgos Matos, who will trace the roots and evolution of Dominican popular music and bachata, offering context to the sounds and stories that shape the performance.
Following the program, participants are invited to continue the experience through movement with a bachata dance class at the dance studio. Space is limited!
RSVP here to secure your spot in the dance class!
Come listen, speak, and move, honoring bachata as a way of life that connects generations and communities. Learn more about the musical genre here.
This event is possible thanks to the Educating for Diversity Grant, supported by Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s Gift: President’s Initiatives.