ETIQUETTE

We strive to promote a dance culture where we dance with as many different partners as practical to encourage everyone to dance. We especially encourage dancing with new people. 

Requesting a dance by asking “Would you like to dance?” or “May I have this dance?” works well. You will occasionally receive a “no, thank you”. The reasons could be many, such as having already promised this dance to someone else or not being familiar with the dance style. 

Generally, folks say "yes" to a dance but we also want folks to feel comfortable saying "no, thank you". Do not feel compelled to give a reason. However, if you do turn down a dance, it is considered impolite to subsequently accept a dance request from someone else for the same song.

Begin the dance by introducing yourself. Smiling during the dance puts your partner at ease. If it turns out the song tempo is too fast or a dance style with which you are unfamiliar, for example, it is OK to request to sit it out and perhaps arrange to dance to a tempo appropriate song. 

There is no expectation to maintain conversation during the entire dance. Communicating with your partner via  the music and the dance is what we look forward to.

We welcome dancers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. Don’t be afraid to ask anyone to dance regardless of dance experience. Experienced dancers welcome newcomers and strive to make them feel comfortable. In Lindy Hop, social dancing is about grooving to the music, having fun and is not about accomplishing moves. Be aware of the level of experience of your partner and adjust accordingly so that you are both having fun. 

Lindy Hop means *almost* never having to say you are sorry. It is human nature to apologize when we feel we have goofed up and it may be appropriate in some cases. For example we should acknowledge bumping into another dancer with a quick “sorry”. However, avoid apologizing to your partner the entire dance. Again, in Lindy Hop, social dancing is about grooving to the music, having fun and, unlike lessons, (see below) is not about accomplishing moves. If things get wonky for any reason, a smile and a laugh is appropriate. "If you’re not laughin’, it ain’t Lindy.”

Offering unsolicited dance advice to your partner is always frowned upon both on the social dance floor or as a student in a class. 

On the social dance floor, your partner may ask for feedback and it is perfectly fine to collaborate on a particular pattern. Keep it simple and avoid advice. If an instructor is available, we highly recommend approaching them with any questions when the song is over. Our instructors welcome questions.  

It is not necessary to come to class with a partner as we will rotate partners. This ensures that everyone gets to dance and is also the best way to learn as each partner will dance differently. 

Offering unsolicited dance advice to your partner is always frowned upon both on the social dance floor or as a student in a class. Always be positive!

If your partner does happen to ask for advice or has feedback, please direct the question to the instructors. Responding with “let’s ask the instructor” has a twofold benefit. It is likely that other folks have the same question and newcomers get comfortable asking questions. 

Student-to-student advice during class often results in more confusion. 

Unlike social dancing, lessons will very often be teaching specific moves to be accomplished. Instructors often teach patterns or moves as a vehicle for developing Lindy Hop skills. Even if you “know” the pattern being taught, it is helpful for you and your partner to execute the moves as instructed rather than embellishing. Experienced dancers recognize these moments as opportunities to make their execution better. Fancy is not automatically better.

Dress code differers from venue to venue. While some folks like to dress vintage for dances, there is no "dress code". Lindy Hop events, such as our House Party or DJ’d dances, are typically casual. In all cases, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothes that do not restrict movement. However, consider the comfort of your partner and avoid any accessories that may snag or injure a partner such as long necklaces or big rings.

Also, consider that Lindy Hop can be danced to up-tempo songs so you may sweat a bit.

When wearing a dress, it is a good idea to invest in “dance pants” or to avoid flashing everyone when executing spins. 

As for shoes, again, comfort is key. Consider that Lindy Hop can be high energy so high heels are not recommended. Shoes that can mark up the floors should not be worn to protect the floors of the dance venue. Shoes should not be too slippery, such as hard leather soles, nor very sticky, such as basketball shoes. It is personal preference, though hard or pointy heels can do damage on dance floor mishaps.

Unfortunately, the slickness or stickiness varies from dance floor to dance floor, so it can be hard to prepare if you are not familiar with the venue. Hence the nickname, “the shoe-changers” was coined by one band popular with swing dancers ;-)

That said, our current venue for lessons has relatively sticky floors.

Food and beverages should be kept off the dance floor. 

It is primarily the leader’s responsibility to be aware of the dance space to avoid mishaps. However, follows should also be aware of the dance space and dance according to the available space. 

As much as we try to avoid it, bumping into someone is inevitable. It is not the end of the world, but acknowledging the bump with a quick apology is helpful. Floorcraft is a important skill that should be developed along with your dance skills.

Aerials are cool in dance performances but should not be executed on the social dance floor. 

We will often post live music dance opportunities that take place at a bar or restaurant. When dancing at a bar or a restaurant, please buy something. We want to encourage venues to support dancing and paying customers are the best incentive  If dancing to a live band that has a tip jar, please tip the band. We want them to be glad to see dancers come out!

When attending class or an event, plan on trying to smell good for your partners. For breath issues, we provide mints and chewing gum at the front table. 

Trying to smell good for your partner is great but don’t overdo it. Heavy perfumes or fragrances may cause discomfort for some partners that may be sensitive to them 

It is common for dancers to sweat during an evening of dancing. Bring a towel, handkerchief, or even extra shirts or tops. It can become necessary to periodically change sweat soaked clothing during the evening.

We are doing Lindy Hop to have fun! As in any social situation there may be some awkwardness, but smiling and enjoying yourself will usually make up for any shortcomings. Folks enjoy dancing with someone who is also enjoying themselves. 

“If you’re not laughin’, it ain’t Lindy"