Different Dances and dance styles can
be accomodated on the floor at the same time if simple dance floor
etiquette is followed and that's why a knowledge of floorcraft and
Western Dance Etiquette is required.
Floorcraft
Outer Circle
For dancing a continually moving dance,
e.g. Two Step, Waltz, Polka etc. In an anticlockwise direction.
Slower dancers should allow faster dancers to pass on the outside.
Outer circle dancers should not dance through swing and line dancers
in the center of the floor.
Inner Circle
For dancing a stop-and-go dance, e.g.
shuffle style dances like Rebel Strut, 10 Step, Cotton Eye Joe etc.
Also danced in an anti-clockwise direction. Because this portion of
the florr has few boundary markings, dancers must exercise caution to
prevent themselves from wanderinng into the paths of neighbouring
dancers, both inside and outside the inner circle.
Centre
For dancing a relatively stationary
dance, e.g. Swing, Line Dances, Rock, or when an Outer Circle dancer
wants to 'showcase' a stationary move. Centre floor dancers should
not wander into path of Circle Dancers.
Dance Floor Etiquette
- Never carry a drink or lighted cigarette, or wear spurs onto the dance floor.
- Never back up against the line of dance.
- Line dancers should for several lines rather than long lines which disrupt 'circle' dancing.
- Don't stand on the floor to socialize. Not only does this take up valuable dance floor space, but it usually creates a potentially dangerous safety condition.
- When a dance floor is crowded it is advisable for everyone to take small steps and watch all directions to avoid a collision with another dancer or object near the edge of the floor.
- Be polite and courteous, even when collisions occur. Remember, courtesy is contagious. Apologise if you bump into some.
(Adapted: NTA Newsletter 1995)