Class Etiquette

This is a long list.... It goes into great detail not to give you many "rules" to follow, but to provide information that may help new dancers feel more comfortable in an unfamiliar environment. If it's more reading than you're interested in doing right now, then just remember a simple guideline: classes are conducted in a spirit of mutual respect. Come to class with the expectation that your instructor and fellow students respect you, and accord them the same respect.

Arrive Early, and Take Care of Payment and Paperwork before Class Begins

When making travel plans, try to get to the studio 10 - 15 minutes before class starts--if something goes wrong, you're less likely to be late, and if you arrive with time to spare, you'll be focused, relaxed, and can participate fully in the warm-up.  Pay in advance:  either pay online, or, if you're paying at the door, settle up with your instructor before the start of class.  First time students will need to fill out a registration form before they can participate.  If you are late, please enter class as quietly as possible.

Obtain Permission for Guests

Is your elderly grandmother visiting from the old country? Your classmates probably won't mind if you bring her along. Being shadowed by a film crew for your reality show audition? That might make your classmates feel self-conscious. Want to bring along your new crush so you can show off your moves? Don't. On a case-by-case basis, you may be permitted to bring a guest who will not disturb your or your classmates' focus, but make sure it's okay before you bring someone along.

Leave Needy Kids at Home

You're welcome to bring babies and well-mannered children along, but it's your responsibility to make sure that your kids aren't a distraction or disturbance. If your baby cries during class, please step out with her. If your child is disruptive, take her home. It's not okay to leave unattended children in studio hallways or lobbies.

Don't Eat During Class

Other than water, you may not have open containers of food or drink in a dance studio. (If you like, please bring treats to share after class, but take them to the lobby). Don't chew gum! If you have anything in your mouth while you dance (including things like cough drops and breath mints) you could choke!

Keep the Studio Floor Safe and Clean for Bare Feet

Always remove your street shoes before entering the classroom. If you lose beads or other decorations from your clothing, pick (or sweep) them up. Don't wear clothing that sheds glitter.

You Are Responsible for Any Property Damage You (or Your Kids or Guests) Cause

Leave equipment in the studio alone, including pianos, mirrors, stereos, and exercise equipment. Don't play the piano, and don't rest your stuff on it. If you ignored the rule about open containers of food or drink and brought a cup of coffee to class, don't sit it down on the piano. Don't touch the mirror (you'll leave a smudge), and never push on it or lean anything against it.

Turn Off Your Phone

If a professional or family responsibility requires you to be on call, let your instructor know, and then step into the hallway if you need to take a call or respond to a message during class. Otherwise, turn your phone the whole way off so that you can give class your full attention.

Be Courteous to Other Classes

Never enter the studio when another class is in progress, and leave promptly after class if others are waiting. Keep your voice low in the lobby, changing rooms, and other office or waiting areas.

Watch Your Spacing

Many students begin dance training without well developed spatial self-awareness, and may unintentionally drift into a neighbor's floor space during class. Do your best to stay in your row and spot, and be patient with drifting classmates as their skills improve.

Watch Your Tongue

It may be tempting to offer friendly advice when you see a classmate working to perfect a movement, but, no matter your intentions, it's better to keep it to yourself: unsolicited input is often perceived as intrusive. Tempted to gossip or offer unfriendly feedback? Breathe deeply and look to your better nature. Dance can be competitive; often, this provides a source of positive motivation, but it can also foster insecurity and jealousy. If you have the urge to be catty, resist it: you'll be rewarded by a feeling of self-respect.

If You'd Like to Receive Guidance and Mentorship, Do Your Part to Cultivate a Positive Student-Teacher Relationship

It's customary to applaud at the end of class. If you would like to say a thank you on your way out, it is always appropriate. Be aware that chitchatting, excessive yawning, or standing with your arms crossed may be seen by your instructor as signs of boredom or hostility, and affect her impression of you. If you have a schedule conflict and will need to leave class early, and you don't let your instructor know ahead of time, she may think that you have simply walked out. As an adult student with a busy life full of adult responsibilities, it's understandable that you may sometimes be late or miss class, but be aware that unexplained frequent lateness or absenteeism may give your instructor the impression that you're not very committed. Show support by supporting your instructor's business interests: for instance, if you are interested in buying a DVD that she sells, buy it directly from her. Don't use your instructor's class as a platform to promote competing classes or events to your fellow students.

Contribute to a Positive Community

A comfortable environment a top priority in Natural Beauty Belly Dance classes and students are expected to support this mission in their interactions with one another. You don't have to get involved: it's fine to just come to class, dance, leave, and never talk to anyone. But if you want to connect, do it in a positive way. Be supportive. Don't gossip. Offer newcomers a welcoming smile. Have fun.