Ten Commandments of Social Dance
As a challenge, a dancer once came up with ten “commandments” for social dance, which the author acknowledged were more so opinions than commandments. We thought they were great, and worth some thought. Here’s our paraphrasing of those commandments. Hope you enjoy!
1. THOU SHALT DANCE FOR YOUR PARTNER, AND NO ONE ELSE. Sure, you may want to show off for on-lookers, or make yourself hot-stuff. But what about that person you’re attached too. Oh yeah, them. They’re the person all your attention should be put towards. Dance with them, and you will truly be dancing.
2. THOU SHALT ASK FOR DANCE AND ACCEPT THEM POLITELY. Leads and follows, don’t just stick your hand out. Look the person you want to dance with in the eyes and politely ask them for a dance.
3. THOU SHALT PAY ATTENTION TO THY GRIP. Relax, don’t be pushy or clingy, or expect other to hold you up. And watch the fingers in the back.
4. THY FOLLOWERS SHALT FOLLOW THE LEADER. If follows want to dance with a pole, by all means… We’re sure some of our guests will videotape it. However, for a great dance experience, enjoy the roller coaster ride and/or conversation. Leads are working really hard to show you a good time.
5. THY LEADER SHALT FOLLOW THE FOLLOWER. You read right. Leads should pay attention to what she’s doing, and what she doesn’t seem to like. Leads will also find this, along with the music, the best source of inspiration.
6. MUSICALITY IS OUR FRIEND. If you’re not dancing to the music, why dance?
7. THOU SHALT HAVE GOOD HYGIENE. Use deodorant, change shirts when you’re sweaty. Try to bathe occasionally. Not too much perfume/cologne. If your friend smells, tell them!
8. THOU SHALT LET THE LADY CHOOSE THE DISTANCE. So you’re dancing and your follower keeps getting away from you. Pick up the hint and let her. She probably has her reasons. Creepiness is not welcome.
9. THOU SHALT APOLOGIZE WHEN THOU BUMPS OR KICKS SOMEONE. Even if you are not sure whose fault it is. This is a hard one to remember, especially when the heels of your dance shoe are involved, or those brand new 3” heels. Floor craft is an art, express it on the floor.
10. THOU SHALT ENJOY THYSELF. Ever dance the dance of joy with someone who looks like they’re a member of the Gestapo? Don’t be that person. SMILE!
Oh, and we wanted to add one special one:
§ Don’t give someone pointers during or after the dance, unless they beg you to…