Q:

- Do I need to sign up with a partner?
- Do I need to buy dance shoes?
- What kind of clothes should I wear to class?
- Is there a forum or discussion group that I can join which talks about dancing and events etc?
- What is a “Birthday Jam” or any kind of “Jam”?
- Can aerials and air steps be done on the social dance floor?
- Should I dress up when I go out to a dance or for any kind of social dancing?
- Does Hogtown Swing take specific requests for lessons learned in class?
- Is it ok to learn both lead & follow roles in dancing?
- Is it ok if I ask my teacher to dance?
- Where and how can I buy music to practice my dancing?

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A:

Do I need to sign up with a partner?
No, you can come by yourself. In our classes, we rotate between partners to enhance the learning experience. It is also a way of meeting new people who are in your peer group.

Do I need to buy dance shoes?
No, you should wear shoes that feel comfortable. Running shoes or leather bottom sole shoes are fine.

What kind of clothes should I wear to class?
You should wear clothes that feel comfortable and do not restrict body movement.  It is also a good idea to bring an extra change of clothes or at least an extra shirt as some of these classes may have you sweat a little.

Is there a forum or discussion group that I can join which talks about dancing and events etc?
Yes, there are many.  One of them that we recommend all dancers to be a part of is: toronto_lindy-subscribe@yahoogroups.com as well as the discussion group. Also if you are a full time Hogtown Swing student we have a forum dedicated to our students as a resource for your progress and understanding as well as connecting with other dancers and students.

What is a Birthday Jam or any type of Jam?
A Birthday Jam is basically when a group of people form a circle around the birthday lead or follow.  You then start the dance in the middle with a partner from the circle.  After one or two eight counts of music, another dancer from the circle will steal you from the other and will continue dancing with you until another dancer steals you.  Other jams are similar where there is a circle formed but instead of one lead or follow being the center of attention, just one couple at a time will go in the center of the circle to dance.  The couple will dance for approximately an eight count or until another couple goes in the center.

Can aerials and air steps be done on the social dance floor?
No, aerials and air steps are not recommended on the social dance floor.  These are usually done during performances or dance jams.  This is very important as accidents may occur especially when dance floors can be unpredictable and crowded at times.

Should I dress up when I go out to a dance or for any kind of social dancing?
You should definitely dress appropriately when you go out dancing, meaning to always dress in clothes that are comfortable to wear for dancing, as well as whatever is suitable for your surroundings.  For example when going to a dance, it may NOT be very appropriate to wear track pants, a t-shirt and running shoes…this is something you may possibly wear to dance class but not to a dance.  In other words a more semi casual attire is reasonable and respectable.  Also, if you attend a dance that happens to be a special occasion or event, it is very fitting to dress up in a more formal manner.

Does Hogtown Swing take specific requests for lessons learned in class?
Yes, we do take specific requests and integrate them into our lesson plan.  Depending on how popular it is, there could be an entire class or workshop based on your request!

Is it ok to learn both lead & follow roles in dancing?
Yes, as a matter of fact we encourage leaders and followers to learn both roles in dance. This way you get a better understanding of the lead/follow concept.

Is it ok if I ask my teacher to dance?
OF COURSE asking your teacher to dance is ok, in fact we would love it if you would!  Students should never feel nervous or intimidated in asking teachers to dance and for that matter, never to feel that way when asking anyone to dance!
As a teacher on the social dance floor, we are just out to dance and have fun.  We are not taking notes on what you have learned from us or what you need to work on to better your dance.  We are just dancing and having a good time!

Where and how can I buy music to practice my dancing?
Hogtown Swing offers music compilations of various tempos not only for you to practice to but also for your listening pleasure!