In the heart of Boston, the Boston Rhythm Riders have emerged as a beacon of support and connection through the vibrant practice of line dancing.
Founded in 2007 by Angie Dickerson, the organization began as a personal journey of healing. After moving back to Boston to care for her mother, who had been diagnosed with stage four breast cancer, Dickerson turned to her passion for dance as a source of joy and upliftment.
As a UMass Boston theater arts alum and a Roxbury native, Dickerson understands the power of the arts to transform lives. Her need for connection through music and dance sparked the creation of Boston Rhythm Riders, a group dedicated to not just teaching line dancing, but fostering a community.
“Line dancing actually saved me. While I was saving other people at the same time, I didn’t realize the impact,” Dickerson shared about her motivation.
Starting from humble beginnings, Dickerson organized classes in various venues, from gyms to community centers. Despite her enthusiasm, she faced challenges in securing spaces, as many gyms favored popular fitness trends like Zumba over the underappreciated art of line dancing.
“They basically were like, ‘Well, Zumba is popular right now. We don’t know anything about line dancing,’” Dickerson recounted.
However, her vision and commitment to promoting line dancing paid off. Over time, as interest in the dance form surged—especially on social media platforms like TikTok—the Boston Rhythm Riders gained momentum.
Classes have become incredibly popular, particularly the Wednesday sessions, which have seen attendance triple.
The Rhythm Riders don’t just teach dance; they celebrate the cultural significance of soul line dancing, connecting it to the broader history of Black culture. While the group acknowledges the common misconception that line dancing is limited to the country genre, they emphasize its roots in R&B, soul, Afro-fusion, and hip-hop.
Many participants in the class fondly recall learning famous soul line dances like the “Wobble” and “Cupid Shuffle” during family gatherings, reviving a sense of nostalgia while promoting community bonding.
As their reputation grew, the Boston Rhythm Riders began to showcase their talents at various local events, including the BAMS Festival and Juneteenth celebrations. Upcoming performances, such as their participation in Boston While Black’s Family Reunion this Saturday, further highlight their commitment to community engagement.
One of the group’s newest members, Lori Brown, 69, discovered the weekly Bowdoin Street class while searching for a fitness activity. Now a regular participant, she expressed her gratitude for the impact Dickerson has made on her life, stating, “She got me hooked.”
Beyond the joy of dancing, Boston Rhythm Riders provide a supportive environment where personal experiences are shared. As Dickerson opened up about her own struggles, others connected with her journey, particularly around issues like cancer.
Floyd, another dedicated member, highlighted how the organization combines dance with community work. After taking a break during her breast cancer treatment, she found a welcoming space upon her return and was met with unwavering support from Dickerson and her fellow dancers.
“It’s bigger than just line dancing,” Dickerson explained. “We try to tie wellness into everything we do.”
This commitment to wellness is exemplified by their annual line dance wellness anniversary and flash mob fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Through these events, they aim to bring vital resources and a sense of camaraderie to participants, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.
Past collaborations with local businesses, like ZaZ Restaurant and Body by Brandy, underscore the Rhythm Riders’ outreach efforts and their focus on enhancing community ties.
Ultimately, Boston Rhythm Riders stand as a testament to the healing power of dance and community. Each class not only teaches a new line dance but also builds a network of support, encouraging individuals to share their stories and uplift one another in a shared journey toward wellness.
Angie Dickerson and her team continue to pave a way for the future of soul line dancing in Boston, blending rhythm, movement, and emotional healing into a beautiful tapestry of community spirit.
image source from：bostonglobe
