Washington Park Fieldhouse Hosts Popular Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba Dance Classes as Cultural Arts Program Expands

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Washington Park · November 22, 2025

Washington Park residents are embracing cultural diversity through movement and music as the Old Town School of Folk Music's Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba classes at the Washington Park Fieldhouse gain popularity. The classes, taught by instructor Lauren Brooks, are part of the school's broader initiative to bring diverse programming to various Chicago neighborhoods and create more inclusive arts experiences across the city.

The Bomba classes, which began in mid-October, represent the Old Town School's commitment to drawing audiences that better reflect Chicago's diverse population. This programming aligns with the city's increased investment in community-based arts, with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) recently announcing over $6 million in CityArts grants to support arts organizations throughout Chicago's 77 neighborhoods. These expanded cultural offerings in Washington Park provide residents with opportunities to engage with traditional art forms while building community connections.

Neighborhood residents interested in participating in the Bomba dance classes can register through the Chicago Park District's website or visit the Washington Park Fieldhouse for more information. The classes welcome participants of all skill levels and are part of a growing roster of cultural programming at the historic fieldhouse, further establishing Washington Park as a vibrant hub for arts and community engagement on Chicago's South Side.

Sources:
1. https://chicago.suntimes.com/entertainment-culture/2025/11/06/chicago-arts-museums-theaters-diversity-equity-inclusion-dei-nonprofits-boards
2. https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/provdrs/grants/news/2025/november/cityarts.html