Asking for a dance
Anyone can ask anyone: leaders, followers, beginners, teachers. Make eye contact, offer a hand, ask with a word or a smile. If someone is resting, drinking or deep in a conversation, wait for the next song.
Saying no, and hearing it
You never owe anyone a dance. “No, thank you” or “maybe later” is enough, without a reason. When you hear a no, smile and move on, and do not ask again that night unless they come to you. Turning someone down and then dancing that same song with someone else stings, so if you said you are resting, rest.
One song or two
A dance is usually one or two songs. Say thank you at the end; that also means the dance is over. If you would like another, ask, and accept either answer.
No teaching on the floor
Unless your partner asks, do not correct them. A social is for dancing, not for lessons, and unasked advice is the fastest way to spoil a dance. If something is not working, it is the leader’s job to lead something simpler, and anyone’s job to say so if something hurts.
Lead what your partner can follow
A good dance is one both people enjoy, not the longest list of figures. Read your partner in the first eight counts and dance at their level. Dips, drops and tricks only with someone you know can do them, with space around you, and never with a stranger who did not see it coming.
Close hold is a choice
Bachata can be danced very close, especially in sensual and Dominican styles, and it can be danced in open hold. Both are fine. Offer close, never pull, and let your partner set the distance. Body waves and head movements are led gently, and only when the follower is with you.
Sharing the floor
Protect your partner first: you are the one who can see behind them. Keep to your space on a crowded floor, save travelling figures and big styling for when there is room, and if you bump into someone, check they are fine and say sorry.
Fresh, every dance
Shower before the party, wear deodorant, bring mints, a small towel and a spare top or two. If you are wet through, change. It is the kindest thing you can do for a stranger you are about to dance close with.
Phones and filming
Ask before you film someone else’s dance, and before you post it. Many festivals ban filming in workshops, or allow only the recap at the end.
When something is wrong
No means no, on the floor and off it. If a dance hurts, stop it; you can walk away mid-song. If someone makes you uncomfortable, tell the organizer or the festival’s team. Good festivals take it seriously, and so should all of us.