November 16–23, 2000

critic pick|world beat

Plena Libre

If you’re recently converted to Latin music, you should catch Plena Libre for a chance to learn about the roots while enjoying a modern twist. The 12-piece orchestra, with plenty of horns and voices well-tuned, are dedicated to the Puerto Rican street music known as plena which somewhat resembles Trinidadian calypso. "They are keeping the plena tradition alive but refreshing it with modern sounds," explains Carmen Febo, director of Taller Puertorriqueño, the show’s co-presenter along with the Painted Bride. Febo recalls that in Puerto Rico plena was mostly heard from a bunch of guys on the corner with drums and maybe a guitar or accordion, and the tradition has always been full of topical content, with commentary on the latest news sung lustily. Add to that a band that has won all the major awards for traditional music in Puerto Rico, and whose musicians have influences from salsa to samba, and there’s an evening of barely containable energy in store.

Earlier in the day you can partake in a literal learning experience, as Taller Puertorriqueño presents a workshop at Temple, where Plena Libre will teach the drumming and singing that are key to the genre.

—Mary Armstrong

Plena Libre, Fri., Nov. 17, 8 p.m., Painted Bride Art Center, 230 Vine, 215-925-9914, $20; Nov. 17 workshop 11 a.m. at Temple University, call 215-426-3311 for information.