You may not be fighting for a role at an audition or performing on a professional stage yet, but your daily dance class is still a special time and place to take seriously. Knowing the Do’s and Don'ts of dance class etiquette will help you focus and have the best experience possible from your class. You will create good habits, stand out in auditions, and be more confident in performances.

The DO’s

Dress to Impress

You don’t have to wear a full face of makeup or an eye-catching outfit, but you always want to represent yourself in the best light! As dancers, it’s important to train for that unpredictable moment when someone will notice you and hire you from class.

Wear appropriate form-fitting clothes so your instructor can see your lines and

keep your hair neat with hair ties and headbands. Check out our bestselling youth and adult dancewear for some inspiration on what to wear to dance class. 

Listen, Listen, Listen

Even listening is part of dance class etiquette. Staying present, quiet, and engaged while your teacher talks is respectful, and you don’t want to be the dancer in the audition room who asks a question that’s already been answered! 

You can also learn a lot from your peers—listen and apply their questions and corrections to your dancing. 

Have Spatial Awareness

Dance classes can often be crowded. Be cognizant of your movement so you don’t kick or step on dancers around you. The teacher will eventually split you into groups and give you more space to go “full out.”

Practice Good Manners

Greet your teachers at the start of class, and thank them if they offer you a correction. And, of course, apply that correction!

Don’t interrupt your teacher when they’re explaining an exercise by talking with your friends,  practicing the choreography on the side of the room, or even asking a question. Questions should be asked once the teacher has finished instructing you on the exercise. 

Be Courteous When Filming in Class

Filming choreography for social media is continually on the rise. It’s important to know how taking videos fits into dance class etiquette. Posting your strengths and elegance on social media can be uplifting and inspiring, but it’s essential to be respectful of your class.

Always ask permission from your studio, teacher, and classmates before taking a video while in class. Most importantly, keep it professional. The studio is a safe and supportive space for you to explore, mess up, and improve. It’s hard to do that if you or your peers are taking videos during class. This can often be disruptive to others. Sometimes, filming can even make you or others feel judged or left out if permission is not asked for or granted. 

Also, it’s an honor if your teacher asks you to perform some choreography for the studio’s social media page(s). Use the opportunity to strengthen your performance skills. 

Remember, Class Is for You

Class is meant to be a safe space to challenge yourself and grow as an artist. Focus on the process—not perfection. Challenge yourself and travel to learn from other teachers at conventions. They are a great place to make connections, and your proper dance class etiquette at your home studio will be super valuable when taking class in a new environment.

The DON’Ts

Check Your Phone During Class

Even if you have a 5-minute water break, sneaking a peek at your text messages or social media notifications can be distracting. Keep your phone on silent and tucked away for the duration of the class.

Stand in Front If You’re New

Even when you’re only new to a specific combination, standing in front, especially during warm-up, is a privilege and a responsibility since dancers behind you might be trying to follow along.

Arrive Late/Leave Early 

Be considerate of your teacher and your classmates by showing up on time and staying for the class duration. If you do have to leave early for any reason, notify your teacher before the start of class. Make your exit swift and silent, so you’re not distracting. 

Support Your Classmates

Respect your peers by giving them attention and as much of the studio as possible when it’s their turn to dance a combination. If the room is small or you’re expected to watch, don’t dance in the back or on the side of the room while another group has the floor—even if you’re practicing for your turn. Watch and clap for other groups.

Feed into Your Teacher’s Pet Peeves

We all have pet peeves, and the truth is you probably have some bad habits you don’t even realize, which drive your dance teachers crazy. This includes looking and acting like you’re bored or like you don’t want to be there. Standing with your arms crossed and with an apathetic expression gives off the impression you don’t care. Standing alert and attentive will energize your body and mind and also show your teacher you’re engaged in the class.

If you follow all of the do’s and don'ts of dance class etiquette, you will not only become a good student but positively stand out in any class. 

Why Taking Class Matters

Dance is both an art and a science. Attending dance class keeps your body and mind fit so you can gain strength, technique, and confidence. Some benefits include:

• There’s always more to learn. Even in the most basic ballet class, you can work on turnout, extensions, balance, and performance quality. Every class gives you the chance to become a better dancer and to push your fitness level.  
• You’ll keep your body in tune. Dance class helps you work on technique, flexibility, and strength, keeping you at your best and helping you avoid injury. 
• It will inform your performance quality. Taking new and different classes will make you a stronger and smarter dancer. Learning how to perform can also boost your confidence overall. 
• You stay engaged with the art. Dance is always changing and evolving—new styles, choreography, and techniques are developing at this very moment.

Dance classes open the door for learning, growing, and participating in a lovely art form that pushes you to become a better dancer and person. Feel comfortable and confident in Jo+Jax dancewear and follow these dance class etiquette tips for the best experience possible in every dance class.