We’ll be adding to our FAQ list soon! For now, you can browse the class FAQ below.
- What class should I take?
- Um, Charleston? What’s that? Who does it?
- How long do I have to take classes before I can go out social dancing?
- How do I sign up?
- What types of payment do you accept?
- Do you have student/low-income discounts?
- Can I try a class?
- Do I need to bring a partner?
- What kind of shoes should I wear?
- Should I lead or follow?
- What if I’m a klutz?
What class should I take?
For first time dancers, we recommend East Coast 1 or 2, or Charleston 1 or 2. Charleston is an extremely easy and fun dance, and it will teach you foundations necessary to later learn Lindy Hop should you choose. If you have some previous dance experience or are feeling particularly gung-ho, you can take Lindy 1 or 2 to start.
Um, Charleston? What’s that? Who does it?
Charleston is the beginner swing dance. Here’s a Youtube example of what’s normally taught in a beginner Charleston class. It was originally danced to the jazz music of the 1920’s and 30’s and was the precursor to Lindy Hop. You can find many people to dance Charleston with at any swing dance!
How long do I have to take classes before I can go out social dancing?
The great thing about this dance is that it is both easy enough and fun enough to do out socially almost immediately. See the Dances page for where to dance.
How do I sign up?
Either show up a few minutes early to register and pay (cash or check), or register and pay online (in advance only).
What types of payment do you accept?
We accept cash or local checks on site, and credit cards through Paypal (see online registration).
Do you have student/low-income discounts?
Yes. Check Group Classes for current rates. If our student discount is still not affordable, please consider volunteering. Inquire at info@hotclubofdurham.com.
Can I try a class?
Yes. Come to any of our Thursday dances for a beginner lesson (FREE with dance admission). We offer one-time beginner lessons in Charleston, East Coast, and Balboa.
Do I need to bring a partner?
Definitely not! Often singles learn to swing dance in order to meet people, though of course we encourage you to bring friends. We rotate partners in class so everyone has a chance to dance with each other.
What kind of shoes should I wear?
Some people wear special dance shoes, some where tennis shoes. The basic rule is to wear shoes that are comfortable.
If you are prepared to buy a pair of shoes dedicated to swing dancing, you can try the DanceStore.com website. For more exhaustive recommendations, please email us.
Should I lead or follow?
That’s entirely up to you. Most men lead; most women follow. In class we’ll do exercises where both roles practice initiating movement; you may realize you prefer something other than what gender norms dictate. You can try both, though you will probably find it difficult to learn to both lead and follow concurrently if you’ve never done any partner dancing.
What if I’m a klutz?
That’s just your insecurity speaking. Though you may think your klutziness is an objective reality, the truth is that most anyone can be taught confidence on the social dance floor. The emphasis of my classes is fun, not perfection. If you’re not ready for partner dancing, try my Vernacular Jazz & Solo Charleston classes. We also offer private lessons for those who would like more focused instruction.