The Pocket Guide to Swing

Social Dance Etiquette: The Pocket Guide

By Lindy Hopper, Editor

A social is where Lindy Hop really happens: no teacher, no routine, just music and partners. These are the unwritten rules, written down.

Asking and answering

Anyone can ask anyone. Beginners ask experienced dancers; leads ask leads; follows ask follows.
"No, thank you" is a complete answer. No reason needed, no hard feelings. If someone says no, smile and ask someone else.
One or two dances with the same partner, then mix it up.

On the floor

Floorcraft: keep your dance compact when it's busy and watch out for the couples around you.
No aerials on a social floor. Lifts and throws are for performances and jam circles, with a partner who has practised them with you.
If you bump someone, say sorry – even if it wasn't your fault.
Dance at your partner's level. Nobody enjoys being thrown into moves they don't know.
Don't teach on the social floor unless you're asked.

Consent and comfort

Connection should never hurt. If something feels uncomfortable, say so, or stop the dance politely. Most scenes have a code of conduct and a named person to talk to – look for it at the door or on the school's website.

Bring

A spare top or two, deodorant, mints, water, and the shoes you can turn in.

Jams

When a circle forms and couples take turns in the middle, that's a jam. It's often for a birthday or a special occasion. Clap on 2 and 4, cheer, and jump in only when you're invited.

Ready to try it? Find a beginners' class or browse Lindy Hop classes across the UK.