Bodies of Empowerment is a free dance program offering classes throughout San Francisco Bay Area where adults can move, connect, and explore creativity through a wide range of movement practices.

Founded by Kristin Damrow and Shareen DeRyan, BOE was created from a belief that dance should be accessible to everyone. By removing financial barriers and partnering with artists across the Bay Area, BOE provides welcoming spaces where people of all backgrounds and experience levels can move, learn, connect, and express themselves through dance.

Since launching in 2022, BOE has served more than 1,400 participants through free programming and now offers over 24 free classes annually. Classes have included contemporary dance, hip hop, vogue, Gaga, aerial dance, Umfundalai, Flying Low, drag theater, intergenerational movement practices, and more.

One of the unique aspects of BOE is the diversity of people who share the space. Many classes bring together professional dancers, lifelong movers, people returning to dance after years away, and individuals stepping into a dance class for the first time. Rather than separating participants by experience level, many BOE classes are designed as collective learning environments where everyone can engage with the material in ways that feel meaningful and challenging to them.

In addition to providing free access for participants, BOE supports a growing network of teaching artists through paid opportunities, helping sustain a vibrant and diverse dance ecosystem in the Bay Area. BOE is a community engagement program of Kristin Damrow & Company, extending the organization's commitment to creating accessible opportunities for artistic participation and connection.

We believe dance has the power to foster connection, confidence, joy, and belonging. Through free classes, artist partnerships, and community-centered programming, BOE continues to create spaces where people can experience the transformative potential of movement together.