Beginner and Intermediate dancers always have thoughts of what to do, and what would be appropriate dancewear when going dancing. Accordingly, you should always bring proper dance shoes when going to any event. After 30+ years of performing and watching from the vantage point of the stage, indeed I have seen a lot of body language and expressions of the dancers. In sharing my experience, it's important to realize that yes, having a long list of tips will only take away from what can certainly be a fabulous evening of dancing. Here are a few pointers to ease your mind and get you radiating confidence before you walk out the door.
1 Know The Venue: To ease the thought of what dance shoes to bring, it's always good to ask friends who've been to the venue about the floor and dress code. They'll know first hand which dance shoes and outfit to wear. In addition, this will avoid the uncomfortable feeling of being over or under-dressed and keep you confident, in the VIBE of the party, and smiling all night.
2 Prepare For Casual Dancing: To better enhance your night out, another key point to remember is that there are others who are looking for casual only. Others indeed may be just as nervous as you, and are not looking for unwanted advances. Most dancers just want to enjoy the music and take advantage of their paid lessons, as well as their purchased dance shoes. You may be passing up an opportunity if you are judging a male/female by their looks or dancewear. Therefore, going with the intention to enjoy a nice evening is the best expectation.
3 Be Confident: Of course there will always be others who are more advanced in their techniques. However, be confident in what you know and have learned, the basic steps are the most important part of the dance, not how fancy you can look swinging around like a trapeze artist! Likewise, the more fun and confidence you have, you too will advance your dancing and social skills. Dancing with any person at your level or lower will allow you to share tips and basic moves, and will give you confidence to step up to a fun dance experience. Furthermore, if your intention is to perform at an advanced level, building your confidence will allow your whole being to be happy as your skill level increases and advanced dancers will be looking forward to partner with you and sharing what they know. This is a Win-Win situation!
4 Be Mindful of Others: Oh yes, there's always those dancers that feel the need to be noticed and Hog the Floor wanting to show off their new dance shoes and the moves they just learned. Although you may learn something by watching, just remember you are there to dance as well as others. If you have the room, no problem. On the other hand, on a crowded floor implement defensive dancing so you do not step on yours or others footwear. More importantly, you do not want to twist your ankle or step on a toe that will end the evening prematurely.
5 Keep Hydrated: This is important to reiterate in any article about dance. You find yourself dancing song after song and having a great time of course. However, your body needs water and not surprisingly, you will cramp up for not hydrating. If you are enjoying libations make sure you also drink some water too since alcohol will only add to the dehydration effect. After a fun evening, your body will get a good night sleep. Not hydrating is one of main reasons it's hard to get to sleep after a fun evening.
In summary, consider implementing these tips to enhance your dancing experience. In researching elsewhere you will see that there are many tips and suggestions on what or what not to do. Even so, these 5 tips seem to be similarly consistent across the dance world. Also, if applied in our daily lives we can build confidence no matter if at home with a partner, at work or amongst other acquaintances. So have a great time, show off your classy dance shoes, keep dancing and keep smiling!
Miguel "Mambo" DeLeon has been a Latin music entertainer for over 30 years. He is known in the Midwest Salsa and Latin Jazz scene as "The Pioneer" - "El Pionero" since the mid 80's. From the mid 70's he worked alongside Orchestra Charambo and backed up various vocalists from the Fania All Stars. Other artists include such legends as Larry Harlow, Ismael Miranda, Willie Colon, Celia Cruz, Hector Lavoe, Ruben Blades, Tito Puente and many more.
Motivated by his fans with questions about dancing and what shoes to wear or not to wear, he has opened an online store which specializes in comfort fitting dance shoes with style. Visit Classy Dance Footwear today to find your desired dance shoes.
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