Staying Busy
08.12.10

It feels like Beth and I are at the point where we go dancing to catch up with all our friends and dance family! Everyone appears to be digging in and staying extremely active in all of life's splendid endeavors.
 
One of the greatest aspects of dance is the social environment and opportunity to connect to so many people. We may all have a common passion, but the diversity of backgrounds in all of the dancers we know is a rich tapestry of all walks of life.
 
Keeping that in mind, I know many new dancers set up at dances far from the floor and isolated from others. Although many of us start off finding the scene bewildering and somewhat frightening, for all who stick with it long enough, the connections to other dancers can be created literally overnight.
 
So, why slow the process down at the beginning? Here are a couple tips to become a part of the scene quickly:
 
Join Group Classes
Most instructors give introductions during the start of the class. You will usually be interacting with others at the same level or very close to it in these classes. They will have similar thoughts and feelings, so band together! Become dance pals and meet for the dances as often as you can find your schedules coincide.
 
Sit Up Close To The Floor
Especially if you can get there early, this is a big boost to your chances of getting to know everyone. Even sitting one table back can drop your chance to dance and meet people dramatically. The most active dancers are on the floor by definition and being available to them to ask or be asked before they leave the area increases your chances of landing a dance.
 
Some dance groups may meet at a particular table and in many instances, they will welcome new faces. Unless the table has a reserved sign, take a seat and say hello to those around you.
 
Try to Take Two!
When you are on the floor, don't scoot right off after the dance. Turn and ask someone that was dancing near you. Some dancers may need a break for water, rest or a trip to the restroom, so if you don't get a "yes" all the time, don't take it personally. This tip will keep you on the floor more often than not and the random request will net you some new dance buddies in many instances.
 
Make Eye Contact...
When you are watching, don't look away from the floor when a song ends. Look at the other dancers coming off the floor. This will show an interest and is even considered a dance request in some instances (Tango comes to mind). You just might find another dance or three in your evening with this little tip...