FAQ Page 

How are the classes structured? 
All courses start at the beginning of each month and finish at the end of the month.  Classes run for 50 minutes and begin on the hour.   

Each class begins with a warm up exercise to start you moving and to introduce basic dance techniques.  We will review the previous week’s lesson and then add new material.  We teach partnership dancing, and we rotate partners throughout the lesson – this helps you to become a strong dancer, able to dance with anyone confidently. 

Do I need a partner to take classes?
No.  Many people take classes without a partner.  Since we rotate partners throughout the lesson, you will have the opportunity to dance with a variety of people.

My partner and I would like to take classes together, but we would prefer to dance only with each other. Is this allowed?
No. We ask that all students rotate partners during group lessons.  We have found that over time, students who only dance with one partner primarily learn only steps and never develop the proper lead and follow techniques critical to success in partnership dancing. Since dancing is also a social activity, and one we do with a variety of friends, rotating partners is also the best way to meet others in the class.

Outside of our group lessons, we do provide time before and after class for couples to practice together and we offer other activities--variety dances and practice parties in which couples can practice and stay partnered together if they prefer.  We also offer private lessons in which couples can learn to improve upon their technique and styling with each other.

I’ve never danced before and I’m not sure what to expect.  Is it okay if I just come to watch one or two classes? 
Absolutely!  We understand that the decision to take a dance class is not always an easy one.  Feel free to stop by, observe a class or two, and ask questions.  Then, when you are ready, sign up for a course at the beginning of the next month.   

What should I wear to class?
Think casual and comfortable – whatever you feel good in.  Most students wear jeans or slacks.  Wear clothes that allow for freedom of movement.  Also, once you get moving, the studio can get quite warm.  Consider wearing a lightweight sweater that can be removed if you get too warm.  Avoid wearing blazers, or heavy sweaters as they can get in the way of your partner and affect your ability to move freely.

Do I need special shoes?
Slip on shoes that are open in the back, flip flops, or sandals that do not hold your feet firmly in place can be dangerous for dancing and are not a good option for class.  It is also difficult to execute some dance moves in rubber-soled shoes – smooth or leather soled shoes are best.  You do not need to purchase special dance shoes, but if you would like to, see Dance Links on our website for places that sell them.

What does it mean to Lead or to Follow?
Partnership dancing requires a lead and a follow.  Lead means to precede and follow means to go after.  Traditionally, the man leads and the lady follows.  However, it is perfectly acceptable to switch those roles if desired.

What if I want to learn to lead instead of follow, or vice versa?
You are welcome to switch traditional roles.  The only requirement is that you have fun while learning to dance! 

How many lessons do I need to take before I will be able to dance at a party or other social function?
Our courses are designed to get you dancing quickly.  After completing levels I and II, you will have a good foundation of basic steps and movement, which you can use with confidence socially.  As with any new skill, the more you do it, the better you become.  Continuing with courses and finding ways to practice outside of class will help you to improve on technique and styling as well as learn more complex steps and patterns.  

Will learning a second dance before I have mastered the first dance interfere with my ability to make good progress?
No.  Learning more than one dance builds on  your experience and actually makes it easier to learn.  As you become more familiar with a variety of rhythms and steps, you will discover how easy it is to incorporate what you’ve learned from one dance into another.  Additionally, there are some basic dance movements - techniques that are generic to many dances.  Taking different courses reinforces these movements, giving you more practice and the opportunity to progress faster.

Will I have to go to a club or bar to use what I learn in class?
No.  While many clubs and bars offer social dancing, not everyone feels comfortable in this kind of a setting.  There are many other places and opportunities to use your new dancing skills whether it’s an all age dance, adult only dance or alcohol free dance.  See Dance Links on our website for more information.

What if I’m interested in competing or learning to teach others to dance?
We offer private lessons that can focus on competition or teaching if this is your goal.  At the Dance Experience, if you have never competed, you must have a minimum of 10 private lessons before you can compete at the Newcomer level. 

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