The Full Story
About Colectivo Sayba
Colectivo Sayba is an independent and innovative ensemble of art practitioners dedicated to the preservation, education, and performance of the Bomba tradition, a dynamic cultural expression that stands as the oldest musical genre of Puerto Rico. Drawing from a rich history of over five centuries, Bomba represents the voices of African descendants who utilized the drum as a vital medium for communication and cultural continuity across the Caribbean and the Americas. Through the interplay of percussive instrumentation, rhythmic dance, and evocative storytelling, Colectivo Sayba highlights the emotional spectrum of Bomba—encompassing themes of joy, grief, conflict, and shared community histories.
Mission
Recognizing the invaluable contributions of Bomba practitioners from both Chicago and Puerto Rico, Colectivo Sayba actively engages with community organizations to foster collaborative educational opportunities. Since the late 1980s, practitioners have been instrumental in cementing Bomba’s presence in Chicago’s cultural landscape, presenting masterful experiences that reflect the tradition’s enduring relevance.
Colectivo Sayba seeks to position Bomba as a significant cultural movement that challenges colonialism, displacement, and assimilation. By building invested and sustainable cultural communities in Puerto Rico and the Diaspora, the ensemble envisions a future in which Bomba serves as a catalyst for community growth, healing, and transformative education.
Since July 2023, Colectivo Sayba has been independently based at El Schomburg | Espacio de Arte Contemporáneo, where they continue to present performances at esteemed venues including the Museum of Contemporary Art of Chicago, Navy Pier, Puerto Rican Arts Alliance and Fiesta Boricua in Humboldt Park, enriching local and regional cultural dialogues.
Lates
Check us out on the news: https://www.fox32chicago.com/video/1545005
Get in Touch
2538 W Division St
Chicago IL 60622
For more information and/or bookings contact: colectivosayba@gmail.com (312)646-8278
IG: @colectivosayba