The Basics of Dance Class Etiquette

Habits for Dancers

 •    Dress appropriately and come prepared.

•    Don’t chew gum or bring food and drinks (a closed water bottle is okay) into the studio.

•    Never wear dance shoes outside the studio or wear street shoes in the studio. And check for loose screws …on your taps before you step foot on the dance floor.

•    Don’t wear jewelry to class.

•    Leave your street shoes and coat in the waiting room. 

•    Don’t come late and if you do, enter very quietly.

•    Don’t leave early. If it is a must, talk to the teacher before class. 

•    Don’t talk while the teacher is talking. Not even whispering to the person next to you.

•    No cell phones or apple watches in the classroom.  

•    Listen first, then ask relevant questions.

•    Respect the personal space of others.

•    Respect the dance space. Pick up trash, your clothes, and don’t turn things on or off in the space without permission.

•    Watch your language, even when you mess up.

•    Don’t “hang” or slouch on the barre or anywhere else, for that matter.  Be attentive at all times, especially when waiting for your turn. Beware of negative body language (like folded arms). And never sit down unless you are asked.

•    Refrain from correcting others (that’s the teacher’s job).

•    Don’t quit in the middle… of the room, of the combination, or of the class. Go with the flow if you’re lost or confused. Never stop traffic.

•    It’s okay to mark combinations while you wait for your turn if you are out of the way.

•    Do not repeatedly leave and then come back in without permission.

•    If you find you have too many questions about something, save them for after class.

•    At the end of class thank the instructor