While there are no line dancing rules as such, there a few simple measures we can take to enable everyone to enjoy themselves on the dance floor.
These tips are known as:
Line Dance Etiquette
Never come onto the dance floor carrying drinks, glasses, cans, or food.
Spillages, broken glass, and dropped food can cause some very serious accidents.
Never stay on the dance floor to chat.
If the music for the next dance has started, leave the dance floor to have your conversation. It’s dangerous and distracting to other dancers if they have to avoid people chatting.
If you’re an experienced dancer dancing near beginners be helpful and courteous, and don’t show off by putting in extra turns or “fancy bits”.
Remember back to when you were a beginner; if you can already dance do try to be helpful and encouraging to people new to Line Dancing.
If you know a different dance to that being done, don’t do the version you know unless there is plenty of room and you sense it is acceptable, or you have been told that it’s OK to do an alternative version.
Remember the floor is for everyone.
It’s perfectly fine to use arm movements and your own personal styling but be mindful of those around you and don’t make movements that are distracting or that encroach into other dancers’ space – this could cause an accident.
If the dance floor is crowded take small steps so that there is room for everyone to enjoy doing the dance.
Be aware of the people around you so as to avoid a collision.
If you should happen to bump into someone, it is customary to apologise whether it’s your fault or not.
A smile is always welcome in this situation 😀
If possible start a new line rather than join one that has a lot of people in it already.
A cramped up line can cause collisions and mishaps
Once a dance has started NEVER walk through a line of dancers to cross the dance floor or to get to a certain place in line –always join the end of a line, or walk around the outside of the dance floor, or wait until the next dance.
Walking through lines of dancers is very dangerous
Do try to arrive at classes on time or a bit early.
This allows time to chat before class or to change into different shoes and means that classes can start on time
If you happen to be running late to class, come into class as quietly as possible and join the end of a line if a dance has started.
You can always move to another position at the end of the dance
If you’re being taught a new dance, try to limit chatting to the people around you so that everyone in the class has an equal opportunity to hear the instructions and learn the dance.
If you’re at a social/hoedown and you see a dance being done that you don’t know, try to avoid learning it on the dance floor by following others.
This is very distracting for the people who are doing the dance, and for those who enjoy watching a dance they don’t know. It can also be dangerous to fellow dancers if you turn the wrong way and collide with them. If you see a dance you’d like to do, then ask your teacher if they would consider teaching it to your class.
Finally, and very importantly, keep your head up, dance with pride and joy, smile, and enjoy yourself.