Dance Etiquette 

 

If you follow these 8 simple guidelines of dance etiquette we can ensure you
that others will always enjoy and look forward to dancing with you.

1.) Asking for a dance

Gentlemen

When asking a lady to dance, it is best to stick to traditional phrases:

• “May I have this dance?”

• “Would you like to dance?”

• “Care to dance?”

• “Shall we dance?”

Avoid repeatedly asking the same partner to dance with you, unless she requests it. You are strongly encouraged  to ask many different partners to dance, including beginners. This not only improves the social dynamics of a dance, it also helps you become a better leader.

Keep in mind that good dancers can make any partner look good.

Ladies

Feel equally comfortable asking a gentleman for a dance, even in a formal setting. You are strongly encouraged to dance with many different partners, as this will make you a better follower.

Keep in mind that a good dancer can make any partner look good.

 

 

2.) Declining a dance

Gentlemen

Don’t get discouraged if you get declined once in a while. Keep in mind that everyone needs a break from time to time. If you do get declined, be gracious about it and smile!

 

Ladies

Only avoid declining a dance under these specific circumstances:

• You do not know the dance.

• You need to take a rest.

• You have promised the dance to someone else.

If you decline a dance this means sitting out the entire song. It is inconsiderate to dance a song with anyone after you have declined to dance it with someone else.

3.) Getting on the dance floor

Gentlemen

It is your responsibility to escort your partner to a place on the dance floor where you are not blocking couples who are already dancing.

Ladies

Allow your partner to lead you out to the dance floor.

4.) Sharing the dance floor

Gentlemen

It’s your responsibility to take care of your partner and make sure she doesn’t bump into other couples. If you are on a crowded floor, remember to take small steps.

Ladies

Minimize your styling on crowded floors and remember to take small steps.

5.) Demeanor

Gentlemen

Be personable, smile, and make eye contact with your partner every so often throughout the dance. Try to project a warm and positive image on the dance floor, even if that is not your personal style. Avoid looking elsewhere while dancing with your partner; your eyes should remain focused on her and your ears on the music.

Ladies

Be personable, smile, and make eye contact with your partner every so often throughout the dance. Try to project a warm and positive image on the dance floor, even if that is not your personal style. Avoid looking elsewhere while dancing with your partner; you should remain focused on following your partner’s leads.

6.) Dancing to the level of your partner

Gentlemen

If you are more experienced than your partner, dance at the level she is in. Always start with simple figures, and gradually work your way up to more complicated patterns. Never blame your partner for missed steps.

Ladies

If you are a more experienced dancer than your partner is, be patient with him. Remember that the learning process can be challenging.

7.) Teaching on the dance floor

Gentlemen

Avoid teaching your partner new patterns during a social dance. Concentrate on doing what both of you can do, and enjoy the dance. Unsolicited teaching can make your partner feel uncomfortable and takes the fun out of dancing.

Ladies

Avoid telling your partner how to lead you during a social dance. Unsolicited teaching can make your partner feel uncomfortable and takes the fun out of dancing.

8.) At the end of the dance

Gentlemen

When a song comes to an end, escort your partner back to where you asked her to dance. Never just leave your partner out on the dance floor. Remember to always thank your partner after a dance.

Ladies

After the dance is finished, thank your partner.