Bombyx addresses shut down by Fire Department after sprinkler system inspection, classification as a ‘nightclub’.

Bombyx Center for Arts and Equity is a venue for multi cultural events and performances that is inside a historic church building in Florence Massachusetts. Not only a space for enjoyment of world music, jazz, and international cultural representation through arts, the building is home of the Florence Congregational church, as well as the reform synagogue, Beit Ahavah. Also it has a preschool, an art gallery, and a kitchen.

Since 2021, Bombyx has been growing into a place of gathering and cultural expression that brings global proposals of global music and performances, creating a steady calendar of events throughout the year.

On May 11, Northampton Fire Chief Jon Davine ordered the Bombyx Center for Arts and Equity to cease all its indoor music events until an automatic sprinkler system is installed in the center’s sanctuary, where concerts are held. After that, an inspection conducted by the Fire Department determined that Bombyx has been classified as a nightclub, making the situation more complicated for the nonprofit that is going through its second weekend of economic harm.

We spoke with Cassandra Holden, co-director of Bombyx to learn more about the current status of Bombyx, their next steps, and how the public can support this cultural nonprofit.

To continue supporting Bombyx and follow the updates on their scheduled events, you can visit https://bombyx.live