BOE strives to provide welcoming and inclusive space where you can explore your favorite ways to move. Our monthly dance classes are taught by master teachers offering their knowledge of a wide range of movement styles and techniques.

As the co-directors of Bodies of Empowerment (BOE), Kristin Damrow & Shareen DeRyan, we have had the unique opportunity to be a part of this outreach program from the very beginning. When we first started BOE, our dream was to create a place where people could come together to dance, connect with others, and explore a wide range of dance styles and forms.

We were inspired to start BOE during the pandemic, when many people were feeling isolated and disconnected from one another. We knew that dance could be a powerful way to bring people together and lift their spirits, and we wanted to offer something different and uplifting that would do just that. With the help of our friend and colleague, Styles Alexander, we began initial planning for BOE and set out to make it a reality.

One of the things that has always been important to us is ensuring that BOE is accessible and affordable to anyone who wants to participate. We believe that dance should be available to everyone, regardless of their financial means, and we have worked hard to make sure that our classes are free and open to all. We are grateful to have the support of the California Arts Council, which has made it possible for us to offer free programming and cover the cost of space, teacher wages, and administrative time.