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Along with learning the steps and techniques of different styles of dancing, proper studio etiquette is extremely important. For many students this is the first experience with dancing. For others, dancing has been a love for years. No matter who the student is, however, dance etiquette is important to learn AND to review.

Arrival Time Arrive approximately ten minutes before your class is to begin, and be completely dressed and ready when the instructor calls you to the floor. If you arrive late to class (no later than ten minutes after the start time), wait at the edge of the dance floor until the instructor invites you to join the class. Bow and take your place. If you arrive more than ten minutes late, you may sit and observe the class if you like, however it will be too late to join the class.

Entering the Studio If, when you arrive, another class is still in progress, enter quietly and avoid conversation or actions that will disrupt the class. It is always fun to visit with your friends and dance classmates, so be sure to go outside to visit.

Attire All students must come to class properly attired for dancing. No jeans or other types of restrictive clothing will be worn. Hair must be pulled back into a ponytail or bun if it is long. Where to buy dance attire.
Ballet: Leotard. Tights may be worn. Ballet slippers are required. Leg warmers are recommended during cold weather.
Tap: Leotard and tights. Tap shoes are required. Leg warmers are recommended during cold weather.
Jazz: Leotard or dance top and tights or jazz pants. Jazz shoes are required. Leg warmers are recommended during cold weather.

Parents Parents are welcome to remain and observe the class if the following rules are observed.

Refrain from calling out suggestions or comments to your child. All children are to be listening to the instructor only.
Remain off the dance floor (unless asked to assist).
Carry on any conversations with other parents in a whisper, or feel free to go outside to converse. Many parents enjoy using this time walk with others.
Questions or comments are always welcome, however, please approach the instructor before or after class rather than interrupting the class. Often, asking the instructor for an explanation of something about which you are unsure, will resolve your concern.
Please insure that any siblings follow the above rules. Do not allow them to run through or wander through the studio, to join the current class, or to make loud noises.
Be respectful of all students. The students are not allowed to criticize or gossip, and neither are the parents.
If your child seems to be nervous or distracted by your presence, please respect your child, the instructor, and the rest of the class, and “disappear from view” for awhile. Many young children perform better when parents aren’t around.

*Rules regarding parents’ presence in studio during class are subject to review every three months, and policy may change.

Student Conduct Keep in mind that all students are at different levels and abilities in dance – even within the same class. At no time is there to be any criticism, gossip, or use of words that will hurt. Provide support and encouragement for your fellow students. Cheer each other on! Offer to help a fellow student who needs additional practice.

Recitals and Performances

Make sure your costume is complete, ironed (if needed) and labeled with your name upon arrival at the performance.

Make sure that you have any needed makeup, hairbrushes, hairspray, hair pins, and safety pins that you will need.

Arrive at the time the instructor has indicated – or earlier.

Listen to the instructor to know what, where and when you will be performing.

Smile!

Parents: It is customary to bring flowers to present to your child after the performance. Please keep the flowers at your seat until the entire show is completed. You may then approach the stage and present the flowers to your child.

Stores:

Wal-Mart or Target often have ballet slippers, tights, and leotards for younger children. You may want to check here first for good prices, since children grow so rapidly.

Payless Shoes often has ballet slippers and tap shoes for children--and sometimes adults too. Worth checking!

Dancewear Etc.
711-7 E. Bidwell (Raley's Shopping Center)
Folsom
916-984-3410

Capezio
3839 H. Street
Sacramento
916-452-2255

Online:
Prices are often much better online. For shoes, however, you may want to go to a dance store and try on the shoes to find your size – and then order online. These online companies usually ship very quickly. You also have the option of calling their toll free number at their website to order.