Dance Etiquette - 10 Things Not To Do In Dance Classes by Kevin Shwe

There is an element in many activities called etiquette. In dance this exists also, of course in something like street or hip-hop dance classes it's much more relaxed but there are still things that you shouldn't do in dance classes.
So here is a list of dance etiquette or things not to do in dance classes. I admit it, I've broken many rules in the past and think many of them are pointless. So here's my personal list and they all have justifications, mainly to help you with your dancing:
1. Treat your dance teacher as a source of information. Sometimes people will go away from a dance class and say bad things about the teacher just because they didn't enjoy the class. Remember one person's lemon is another's lime.
2. Don't walk out of a dance class. Sometimes people will have a genuine reason because they have to leave early for an appointment or audition. But other than this it's respectful to stay in a dance class till the end. If it's really too hard for your level, have a word with the teacher.
3. Pay the teacher for the dance class. Unless you're on a course or classes are pre-paid don't leave a dance class without paying the teacher. They have to make a living as well!
4. When the dance teacher is talking, class participants are listening. If you've been listening for more than 30 minutes, a yawn is permitted, more than 1 hour and 2 yawns are permitted. Unless the fast talker invented the dance style.
5. Don't eat while you're dancing. Chewing gum is fine by me, but some teachers might not like it.
6. Be an active participant. Don't think that you can just sit out and don't need to practise, practise makes perfect.
7. If you're a good dancer, remember how hard it was to begin with and don't laugh at newcomers or who aren't as good. If they're your friends, of course you can but they'll probably bite you when they find out you can't tie your shoelaces or know how to read a map!
8. Don't turn up to dance classes blissed out or high on any substances like mushrooms.
9. Don't turn up searching for new customers for your latest business product or recruits for your life-changing cult.
10. Don't tell everyone in the dance class how great you are and tell them you're a much better dancer than them. Unless you want a ballet shoe in your face.
About the Author
Kevin Shwe runs the Hip Dance Moves street locking dance classes in London. Teaching students funky moves that are ideal for all settings, in just weeks he can transform a complete non-dancer into a confident dancer with the funkiest demeanour. Check his website www.hipdancemoves.com for more details.