Butch Femme Planet - View Single Post - Input needed for LGBT dance lessons weekend

Metro · 10-16-2012, 07:56 AM

Sounds like a fun idea, altho at this point I have no idea if I would be able to attend such an event. Below are a few ideas based on my own experiences…

For those who want to learn some basics of social dance at their own pace (at home and prior to any kind of event) it might be useful to check out instructional videos on YouTube or material from your local library. This is what I did (to understand form for Lead and Follow roles and basic step pattern of dances). It helped a lot -- so that I knew at least something prior to walking into a class.

Second thing I suggest (for beginners) is to choose either Lead or Follow role and learn one before adding the other -- this way you only have to focus on that role as you learn. Eventually learning both roles means you have more people with which to potentially enjoy a dance!

I know this may sound weird, but a really easy way to practice is while hanging on to a grocery cart at the store (be sure it is not too crowded when you go shopping). Bystanders tend not to notice what you're doing. Bonus is that there is often some kind of music playing in the background and a beat to try and match with your dance steps, and the floor makes sliding easy (tip: don't wear sticky rubber gym shoes, wear something with soles that allow gliding). Trying the slower beat songs before graduating to faster songs also helps in getting the steps down pat -- eventually you'll be able to improvise on the dance floor.

Last, have fun! Don't take yourself too seriously and don't be afraid to ask or accept an offer to dance. It's just dancing after all, not a marriage proposal!

10-16-2012, 07:56 AM	#7
Metro Senior Member How Do You Identify?: • Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: • Posts: 1,606 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 2,476 Thanked 2,911 Times in 730 Posts Rep Power: 21474851	Begin the Beguine Sounds like a fun idea, altho at this point I have no idea if I would be able to attend such an event. Below are a few ideas based on my own experiences… For those who want to learn some basics of social dance at their own pace (at home and prior to any kind of event) it might be useful to check out instructional videos on YouTube or material from your local library. This is what I did (to understand form for Lead and Follow roles and basic step pattern of dances). It helped a lot -- so that I knew at least something prior to walking into a class. Second thing I suggest (for beginners) is to choose either Lead or Follow role and learn one before adding the other -- this way you only have to focus on that role as you learn. Eventually learning both roles means you have more people with which to potentially enjoy a dance! I know this may sound weird, but a really easy way to practice is while hanging on to a grocery cart at the store (be sure it is not too crowded when you go shopping). Bystanders tend not to notice what you're doing. Bonus is that there is often some kind of music playing in the background and a beat to try and match with your dance steps, and the floor makes sliding easy (tip: don't wear sticky rubber gym shoes, wear something with soles that allow gliding). Trying the slower beat songs before graduating to faster songs also helps in getting the steps down pat -- eventually you'll be able to improvise on the dance floor. Last, have fun! Don't take yourself too seriously and don't be afraid to ask or accept an offer to dance. It's just dancing after all, not a marriage proposal!