Not at all! We always ask everyone to rotate during the class, and we highly encourage rotating as dancing with different partners improves the learning experience. However, we will allow people to stay with the partner they came with if preferred.

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. For shoes, opt for shoes with smooth soles. Avoid sandals, flip flops, narrow high heels, open-toed shoes, or anything with an open back. Any sneaker, ballet flat, or loafer will work just fine for a beginner class.

Absolutely not! Anyone with any level of dance experience is welcome to our beginner classes.

Our classes at Rhythms Dance Studio are for all ages. Most of our students are adults, but younger dancers are welcome if they can focus and participate with adults. 

Dragon Gate and Blue Ox Tavern are 21+ bar venues. The dining section (where the dancing happens) at The Tavern is all ages, but you must be 21+ to be at the bar.

Swing dancing is a partner dance, so fresh breath and good hygiene go a long way! Be respectful and avoid chatting while the instructor is talking. This helps not only you but your dance partner. 

Be gentle with your partner - this means no yanking or excessive force. 

Don’t give unsolicited advice - let the instructor do the teaching. Ask before giving feedback.

Come to class with a positive attitude! After all, we are all here to have fun while learning. 

Use your words! A simple and polite “Would you like to dance?” is sufficient. Don’t be shy - people here are so friendly, and we are here to dance!

You should never feel obligated to say “yes” to every dance, nor do you owe anyone a reason as to why you are declining a dance. Be kind in your response. A simple and polite “No, thank you,” will suffice.

Additionally, just because you say yes to a dance does not mean you have to finish it. It's perfectly okay to say, “I think I'm done/This song is too fast/too long/I'm tired, thank you for the dance though!”

We do not encourage aerials/lifts on the social dance floor, as you can potentially injure and seriously hurt your dance partner, especially if you have never danced with this person before and are unfamiliar with their physical limitations. Additionally, please do not assume someone’s comfort level with aerials/lifts/dips based on their dancing abilities or physical appearance.

If someone makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable at any point during a dance, please voice it to them! Don’t be afraid to say, “Hey, please don't do that,” and hopefully they apologize, and you both move on. If they keep doing it or you don't feel safe having that conversation with them, please talk to Stephanie Demetreon or one of the other collective members if she is not present (see our collective member section). We are here to advocate for you and keep this space safe for everyone. If someone is making you feel uncomfortable, they are probably making other people feel uncomfortable, and they probably don't realize it! Consider it your act of community service for the day.