Dance Etiquette
Please follow these simple rules to keep everyone safe and comfortable!
- Be Kind and Inclusive: Everyone is welcome regardless of dance experience, age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality, ability, religion, or employment status and we expect everyone to respect each other's identities.
- Lead, Follow, or do both! All dancers have the choice to dance any role. Do not assume someone's dance role based on their gender or physical appearance. Just ask!
- No Means No: If you ask someone to dance and they say no, respect their decision and ask someone else.
- It's okay to say no: You can say no to any dance without explanation and you can stop dancing with anyone at anytime during a dance
- No Unsolicited Feedback: Avoid teaching/correcting others or giving unsolicited feedback
- Look Out for Each Other: If you notice someone looks upset or uncomfortable check in with them or inform a staff member. Be aware of others on the dance floor. If you accidentally bump into someone, stop, say sorry, and make sure they're ok.
- Personal Hygiene: Dancing gets sweaty! Please minimize body odor by showering beforehand, arriving in clean clothes, and wearing deodorant. Consider bringing deodorant and an extra shirt to stay refreshed.
Tips and suggestions
What to expect
When you attend our events you can expect the following:
- Sign in Sheet and Waiver: We will have a sign in sheet at the door and a waiver for all first-time dancers to sign. We have a sign in sheet for all dancers to sign when they attend
- Changing Partners in class: In our Lindy Hop classes we never expect our students to bring a dance partner with them. Additionally dancing with a variety of people is not only the point of social dancing, but the best way to improve your skills. As such we will rotate partners during classes.
- Role Signaling Wristbands: Because dance roles are not gendered, at our social dances we have colored wristbands to indicate dance roles. Followers are coded as yellow, Leaders are coded as Red, and people who dance both are coded as Green. We not make assumptions of people's dance roles based on their presentation and this system is helpful in finding who knows how to dance with you!
- Safe Space: In line with our Code Of Conduct, we expect all members of our community to be respectful of each other's identities and will not tolerate discrimination or disrespect towards any identity including but not limited to: race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or any other part of their identity. Please do not attend if you cannot abide by this.
- Other tips: Bring cash to pay at the door, eat something beforehand, and bring a water bottle!
Clothing
We recommend prioritizing comfort as Lindy Hop is an athletic dance. Think of this as a work out but in fancy clothes. You can look nice while also being practical Specific tips below.
- If you’re wearing a dress shirt, it can be good to bring 1 or 2 extras because of sweat. Extra undershirts are also recommended.
- If you’re wearing a skirt or dress, shorts underneath can be a good idea for comfort
- If you are wearing make up, we recommend waterproof
- If you have long hair, you may be more comfortable wearing it up
- Stay away from materials that don't breathe like polyester and leather
- Wear shoes that you feel comfortable in. If you are a first timer, heels may not be the best option. Pick something your foot can be secure in. Many beginners wear tennis shoes.