FAQ
New to swing dancing? Not sure what to wear, do or bring?!
What is Swing Dance?
Swing dance is a broad term to describe a variety of partner dances that developed during the 1920s-1940s (better known as the Swing Era). Swing dance has been constantly evolving with each new generation since its birth in the 1920s. The term “Swing” refers to the style of jazz music that inspired the dancers to create a new type of dance that had a “swing” feeling. While there were a multitude of dance styles that appeared during the Swing Era, the most prominent dance styles that survived and are still practiced today are the Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, Balboa, and Charleston.
How do I get started?
Come to our Beginner Lessons on Friday! We will get you out on the dance floor in no time.
Do I need a partner?
Absolutely not! While it is perfectly fine to bring a partner, we do rotate frequently during all of our lessons. This allows our students to meet everyone in the lesson and to practice with different people.
Is prior experience required for lessons?
Nope! Our lessons are designed to teach you from the ground up so no prior experience is necessary.
Should I lead or follow?
You can do either! It’s entirely up to you whether you take our classes as a lead or as a follow. Lots of women lead and lots of men follow. Both roles are awesome and many people learn both.
When and where are the lessons?
Lessons are every Friday from 7-8 pm at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center (222 E. Drake Ave.) unless we have specified otherwise.
How much does it cost?
Lessons: Free
Dances: $3 for students
$5 for non-students
Do I have to be a Auburn University student to take lessons?
No. Any member of the community can participate at any of our events! However, only Auburn University students can be a voting member or officer of AUSDA.
What should I wear?
Wear something you feel comfortable in! There is a range of dressy-ness at our dances, so if you want to be in the mid range we suggest guys wear khakis and a polo shirt and ladies wear nice jeans or a skirt and a blouse. If you choose to wear a skirt or a dress, don't forget a pair of shorts underneath as your skirt/dress will fly up! Most importantly, wear shoes that are lightweight, won't fall off, or stick to the floor. We suggest against high heels and flip flops as they are more likely to cause injury.
Do I need experience to participate in the social dancing after the lesson?
Not at all!