“We exist. Period”: Local filmmaker’s fundraising concert centers Afro-Boricuas and North Philly Ricans

Anthony “Ant” Rivera, flashes a warm smile and leans in for a tight hug. The 25-year-old filmmaker is revving up for a concert at Taller Puertorriqueño on Feb. 21 to fundraise for  the last leg of production on his film, “La Lengua del Tambor.” The film is an exploration of Afro-Puerto Rican history and identity through the practice of Bomba that simultaneously centers his roots in North Philadelphia. The event is an immersive cultural experience, bringing in local Puerto Rican vendors such as Amy’s Pastelillos and performers such as Los Bomberos de la Calle.