The Dance Primer

Earlier this week, I made the argument for how important it to go out social dancing, even if you haven’t mastered dance steps through lessons. However, I’m not saying never sign up for classes or go to workshops. In fact, I’d even recommend advance dancers sign up for a class or attend a workshop every once in a while. Different teachers will have completely different approaches to the same things, or a new styling you haven’t tried. Just seeing old moves through fresh eyes can be a big help.

It’s always good to revisit the basics, no matter how advanced you think you are. Lessons, Workshops, Camps and Practicas are fantastic opportunities to do that. Just remember, lessons aren’t going to make you into a dancer. You won’t be a dancer until you get out there on the dance floor.

Are you’re scared? Listen: as much as you think they are, nobody is watching you (unless of course you’re dancing for a judge, which on the social floor, you aren’t). If you’re afraid of looking foolish, don’t be. The secret is to leave your dignity at the door and just try. Even if you have to whisper “step, step, rock-step” to yourself the whole dance, do it with a smile on your face. They’re not going to hate you for just totally screwing up by not letting go on beat four-and-a-half. That was sarcasm, by the way. You honestly shouldn’t be worried about that kind of thing at all on the social floor - and it’s the kind of stuff that does get talked about in lessons.

Instead, just smile at the person you’re dancing with. Pick your eyes up off your feet, and watch the people around you. If you make it through a song without injuring your partner, you’ve had a successful dance. And if you do get bumped into (you won’t be doing the bumping, because you’re watching those around you) just quickly apologize and keep smiling, keep moving, you’re dancing!

Remember why you’re here in the first place, to have fun.

*Photo by Debby Martin.