Dance Class Rules and Etiquette
Be Punctual
You'll get the most out of class if you arrive a few minutes early, so that you are focused, relaxed, and can participate fully in the warm-up. If you are late, please enter class as quietly as possible.
Turn Off Your Phone
Unless you need to be on call, turn your phone the whole way off. If you must take a call during class, please step into the hallway.
Be Courteous to Other Classes
Never enter the studio when another class is in progress, and leave promptly after class if others are waiting. Keep your voice low in the lobby, changing rooms, and other office or waiting areas.
Keep the Studio Safe and Clean for Bare Feet
Always remove your street shoes before entering the classroom. Other than water, you may not have open containers of food or drink in class. (If you like, please bring treats to share after class, but take them to the lobby). If you lose beads or other decorations from your clothing, pick (or sweep) them up. Don't wear clothing that sheds glitter.
Leave Needy Kids at Home
You're welcome to bring babies and well-mannered children along, but it's your responsibility to make sure that your kids aren't a distraction or disturbance. If your baby cries during class, please step out with her. If your child is disruptive, take her home.
Step Away from the Piano
Some dance studios may be equipped with a piano. It's the property of the studio, and it's expensive, so please leave it alone. Don't play it. Don't rest your stuff on it. Don't lean against it. If you ignored the rule about open containers of food or drink and brought a cup of coffee to class, don't sit it down on the piano.
Step Away from the Mirror
It may seem obvious, but remember that mirrors are fragile and easily smudged. To avoid handprints, scratches, cracks, and breakage, don't touch the mirror or lean against it.
Don't Chew Gum
If you have anything in your mouth while you dance (including things like cough drops and breath mints) you could choke!
Respect Personal Space
Do your best to stay in your row and spot on the floor, and be patient with your classmates as they build spatial- and self-awareness skills. If someone bumps you or comes too close, a quiet "hey, watch out!" will usually solve the problem in a friendly way.
Don't Correct Classmates It may be tempting to offer friendly advice when you see a classmate working to perfect a movement, but, no matter your intentions, it's better to keep it to yourself: unsolicited input is often perceived as intrusive. Tempted to offer unfriendly feedback? Breathe deeply and look to your better nature. Dance can be competitive; often, this provides a source of positive motivation, but it can also foster insecurity and jealousy. If you have the urge to be catty, resist it: you'll be rewarded by a feeling of self-respect.
Obtain Permission for Guests
Is your elderly grandmother visiting from the old country? Your classmates probably won't mind if you bring her along. Being shadowed by a film crew for your reality show audition? That might make your classmates feel self-conscious. Want to bring along your new crush so you can show off your moves? Don't. On a case-by-case basis, you may be permitted to bring a guest who will not disturb your or your classmates' focus, but make sure it's okay before you bring someone along.
Contribute to a Positive Community I make a comfortable environment a top priority, and expect students to do the same in their interactions with one another. You don't have to get involved: it's fine to just come to class, dance, leave, and never talk to anyone. But if you want to connect, do it in a positive way. Be supportive. Don't gossip. Offer newcomers a welcoming smile. Have fun.
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