Check the DJ Schedule page for information
on our new location and schedule!
Barefoot Boogie/Freestyle Friday is one of a number of conscious dance events in the Bay Area. It's an "ecstatic dance" that's been in existence since the mid-'80s with its own unique flavor. It's more than a workout or dance party -- it's a place to connect deeply to yourself and others. It's a place for self-expression, connection, and community.
There is no instruction, just a DJ who plays a great mix of music to encourage all kinds of movement and creative self-expression. On any given night you will hear world music (Latin, African, Brazilian, etc.), blues, house, pop, oldies, beautiful electronica, and emotional vocals. There will be a variety of moods, tempos, and styles, with music that has heart and soul as well as beat. You’ll hear some things that are familiar, whether current radio hits or favorite "oldies," some that are new and unfamiliar, and some things that may even surprise you. You may find yourself dancing to things you never expected you’d dance to.
This is a smoke-free, alcohol-free, scent-free, and ear-friendly freestyle dance event. Our dancers tend to dress casually. Non-marking dance shoes are welcome on the beautiful hardwood floor. (We might have to test them to be sure they won't leave marks.)
The dance provides a casual, friendly environment where you can express yourself freely, a healthy alternative to the club scene, a space that’s free of smoke and alcohol and is ear-friendly. We are a scent-free environment as some of our dancers are allergic to scented products. Rather than a non-stop electronic beat, our deejays play a wide range of music that will move you on many levels. Real music for real people!
You can dance alone, with a partner, or even with a group of people depending on the mood of the moment. This is a place where you can do your own dance in a creative, connected community space. We hope you'll join us!
We don't have a lot of "rules." Here they are:
1. No scents, please. Some of our dancers are allergic to fragrances, including essential oils. If you arrive and are scented, you might be asked to leave. Scented products to be aware of include body lotions, strong hair products, and even commercial laundry detergents.
2. Be nice.
3. Do your best to be sensitive to others' non-verbal cues. You might be a perfectly nice person and a great dancer, but even so, not everyone will want to dance with you. Someone might not want to say "no" verbally, but if they turn away from you or give a "namaste" gesture, that probably means they don't want to dance with you.
4. You're welcome to talk on the dance floor when the music is uptempo and more like a "party." When the music is slower, quieter, or more inward, such as during the warm-up, the "dip" in the middle of the night, and the last few songs, please either whisper on the side of the room or move far away from the dance floor. While your conversation might be interesting or fascinating or fun for you, others might not want to hear it when they're turning inward or getting into a more emotionally expressive space.