Agreements for Dance Floor Etiquette
- Ask anyone and everyone to dance, especially new dancers and visitors – this is how we help make everyone feel welcome.
- Avoid making assumptions about dance roles – you can ask: “Would you like to lead, follow, or switch?”
- When asked to dance, you have two great options:
- Say Yes, there is nothing better than an enthusiastic agreement to a dance.
- Say No (thank you) this is your right and requires no explanation or apology.
- If someone declines a dance, that’s okay! Don’t take it personally.
- The end of each song signals the end of the current dance. Please thank your partner and find a new one. If you want to keep dancing with someone for another song, you are always welcome to ask!
- Be careful and respectful of other dancers on the floor. If you knock/bump/step on/kick someone accidentally, immediately stop dancing and please check that they are OK.
- Be very conscious of nonverbal signals and respect your partner’s personal boundaries. Seek consent within the dance you can ask: “Are you comfortable with close embrace?”
- Modest dips, lifts or drops are acceptable on the dance floor, but only if you have received prior verbal consent with your dance partner you can ask: “Are you OK with dips?”
- You may NOT, under any circumstances, invert your partner, or lift their legs higher than your waist.
- Safety for yourself and others is of the utmost importance. Be aware of your surroundings and the physical limitations of you and your partner.
- Be aware that people may have physical limitations/injuries that prevent or limit their ability to express themselves in a dance. If you have any such limitations, please inform your partner.
- Do not give unsolicited advice regarding your dancing experience. In fact, leave advice off the social dance floor entirely. However, if you feel motivated to offer feedback or reflection, always ask permission first. If you want input from your dance partner, please ask for it.
- Experiencing one’s own sensual and sexual energy on the dance floor is beautifully human and totally acceptable in this space. HOWEVER, that “turn on” energy is for YOU to own and enjoy. Please be respectful of others’ boundaries, both physical & energetic, just as you would in any other social scene.
- If anyone touches you inappropriately or makes you feel uncomfortable in ANY way, say STOP. Inform one of the organizers if they do not. We do NOT tolerate ANY form of harassment. Please come and talk to any of the organizers if you see or witness an issue that needs attention.
- If you have any questions or concerns regarding these agreements, please come and talk to us. We want your feedback to make this event as fun and enjoyable as possible!