Join International House as we partner with the Center for Latin American Studies and the Department of Music to welcome members of Plena Libre in conversation with Jessica Swanston Baker. Their conversation will center around plena as an Afro-Caribbean musical form, an important entry point into understanding the history and cultures of the Caribbean.

With an aggressive, tight, yet sensitive style that balances the traditional with the contemporary, global and local, Plena Libre creates a brand of music and live performance that is both profoundly Puerto Rican and universally appealing. Filtering the sounds of various Afro-Caribbean forms like merengue, cumbia, mambo and salsa through a unique set of artistic sensibilities, this versatile collection of expert performers creates a celebratory spectacle and engaging sonic ecstasy.

Free admission. Registration is required. Light refreshments will be served.

Please note that the main entrance to International House is currently for residents only. Attendees should use the door on S Dorchester Ave to enter. International House is complying with all University guidelines on the Go Forward website and at this time, masks are required to be worn by unvaccinated and vaccinated attendees inside International House.

This convening is open to all invitees regardless of vaccination status and, because of ongoing health risks to the unvaccinated, those who are unvaccinated are expected to adopt the risk mitigation measures advised by public health officials (masking and social distancing, etc.). Public convening may not be safe for all and carries a risk for contracting COVID-19, particularly for those unvaccinated. Participants will not know the vaccination status of others, including venue staff, and should follow appropriate risk mitigation measures.

This event is presented in partnership with the Center for Latin American Studies, the International House Global Voices Performing Arts Series, and UChicago Presents.