Going Out Dancing – Some Suggestions
How to have more fun; how to let your dance partners have more fun


First, a few ground rules  (musts)

  • Some dances travel in line-of-direction, like waltz, polka, one-step and foxtrot.  For these dances...
           1) The fast lane is on the outside.  Please don't block or slow down the traffic.  Dance in the fast lane only if you can keep up.  Choose variations which keep up with that flow... don't be a rock in the rapids!
           2) The slow lane or stationary steps are in the center, the eye of the hurricane.

  • If you're not dancing for a moment, please clear completely off the floor.  The dancers will appreciate it.

  • Floorcraft:  Please take extra care not to bump other couples.  i.e. don't step on others, don't rock-step back onto others, don't throw your partner into someone else (!) and don't ram another couple (!!).  Always be aware of the others around you.
    Guys, look where you are going to lead her before you send her there.  Don't start a move unless there is room.  Protect her from collisions.

  • In swing, don't do aerials or kicks in crowded conditions.
    Even if you have lots of space, never attempt to lead an aerial with someone unless you've carefully practiced that move with them.

  • Don't wear heavy perfumes and colognes to a social dance.  Most people don't consider it very sociable, and some have allergies.  And similarly...

  • Dance hygiene!  Need we say more?  (Your partners may find it hard to dance while holding their breath.)
          Actually we should say more.  We often can't smell our own odors so it's always a good idea to brush teeth, shower and use deodorant before going out dancing, including to dance classes.


    Further suggestions  (optional but recommended)

  • Don't be sketchy.

  • We encourage you to dance with people you don't already know.  Most dancers will be happy to dance with someone new.

  • If you are far more experienced than your partner, dance for your partner's style and comfort.  Yes, some challenges and surprises are fun, but being pushed around uncomfortably isn't.

  • Don't force your partner through a crosstep waltz to fast waltz music.  Crosstep works best with slooooow waltz music.  Rotary or Viennese waltzing is much more comfortable and enjoyable at moderate and fast tempos.

  • If you'd like to do role reversal with your partner (often in crosstep waltz), it's a common courtesy to first ask your partner if she would like to lead, rather than springing the lead on her.

  • Give your partners all of your attention.  Let them know, somehow, that you'd rather be dancing with them than someone else.

  • Dancing is all about having fun.  Criticizing your partner isn't fun.  Don't give an impromptu lesson unless asked.

  • If you think you might get sweaty while dancing, bring spare dry shirt or two.   Most dancers hate to hold on to a clammy wet shirt.

  • If there is live music, don't treat the musicians like canned music.  Let them know that you appreciate their presence and their talent.

  • Relax.  Don't get flustered, keep moving, laugh at what happened if appropriate but keep dancing.  Truly exceptional dancers will almost always make a mistake look like something they planned if at all possible.  There are no mistakes in dancing, only new moves.

  • Dance for your partner.  But also dance with your partner — have fun yourself and let your partner know that you're having fun with them.


    — Richard Powers

    More thoughts and musings