Grupo Folklorico I'naru is a multi-generational, multi-ethnic folkloric dance group based out of Phoenix, Arizona. We perform and educate on Afro-Puerto Rican dance and song forms of Bomba and Plena. I'naru has been featured in local and regional cultural and dance festivals, carnivals, and showcases. Past performance have included:
- Cultural Festivals: Caribbean, African, Dominican, Puerto Rican
, and more
- Tucson Meet Yourself
- Musical Instrument Museum: Experience Carnival
- Academic Institutions & High Schools
- Arizona State University
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A bit of history:
Puerto Rico has a rich culture whose origins can be traced back to native Taino, Spanish and African roots. When Christopher Columbus landed in Puerto Rico on his second voyage to the New World, November 19, 1493 the island was populated by Tainos, a gentle, peaceful indigenous people, dating back to 1200AD who called the island Boriken, the Great Land of the valiant and noble Lord. By the 16th century the Tainos virtually disappeared due to diseases for which they had no immunity. Today it is strongly believed that the Taino culture is still very much alive through our vocabulary, music, customs, culture, beliefs and the nature of our people. Needing a new population of laborers to work in the mines and plantations, the Spanish began to introduce African slaves to the island. Their music, food, religion and language integrated into the very fabric of the society (ref: PRFAA-About Puerto Rico). History of Bomba and Plena music was heavily influenced by African rhythms. The Bomba was developed directly from African slaves who were brought to the island. Fearing rebellions slave owners allowed the slaves to gather once a week which served to provide the slaves with a sense of community and identity. It was an expression of their joy as well as life’s struggles. The name Bomba was inspired by a fairly large wooden drum covered in goatskin called the ‘Bomba’ or ‘Barrile” and Conga often used in modern music styles. Once the drummers set the rhythm, the woman proceeds to challenge the “primo” drum to follow her rapid steps and sharp movements. This exchange is called ‘the call and response”. Male dancers will jerk their arms, take quick, short steps backwards and forwards and stops suddenly on his toes, all the while trying to trip the “primo” drummer. If Bomba is all about the drums and dance, Plena, the younger of the two genres, is all about lyrics. The Plena, also known as ‘el periodico catao’ or the sung newspaper is a narrative song that details the pains and Ironies of people and life in their communities. Music and dance are a very important part of island culture rooted in tradition. Many people link the Bomba and Plena genres together, based on historical and musical reasons and both are significant symbols of Puerto Rican national identity.
