FAQs

Swing Dancing is a social dance, so anybody can do it. Frankie Manning danced and taught until he was 94! It has simple foundational steps that once you get a hang of, everything falls into place. Besides, the most important thing is to have fun!

Coming without a partner is fine, coming with a partner is fine too. We will be rotating partners throughout the class for those who feel comfortable doing so. In socials, that's the fun part, getting to dance with different people! Don't hesitate to ask us for a dance, we would love that!

Classes are a great way to get started, no matter you are a beginner or have previous dance experience. A huge part of social dance is the connection between you and the other person, which we will teach step-by-step in all of our classes and work to debunk the myth that dancing with two left feet is impossible. Besides, you get to meet new friends whom you can dance with, and perhaps join our socials together!

You are never too old not to mention too young to dance. Dancing is for everyone to enjoy. Frankie Manning danced until his last years at age 94! Our classes are taught step-up-step and are suitable for those with absolutely no experience. The basic steps in swing dancing are simple enough for everyone to get a hang of, don't hesitate to reach out to us if you need extra help!

Wear comfortable shoes, such as trainers, sneakers and loafers. Dance shoes can also be bought for socials and classes through sites such as Swivells, Saint Savoy and Swingin' Shoes. Be careful to consider carefully when wearing shoes that may be too slippery or too uncomfortable to dance in for a long time such as dress shoes and heels when starting out. Those types of shoes are hard to control on the dance floor and may severely injure other people when you miss your step. Most importantly, wear a big smile!

Our classes currently take place at 5731 Minoru Boulevard in Richmond, BC. There are various parking spaces in the front parking lot along Minoru Boulevard, look for Stage One Academy. If that is full, there is parking behind the building, it's easily accessible if you drive down the narrow road just on the right of the building or drive down Lansdowne road from Minoru Boulevard and turn left into the back of the building.

Our socials currently take place at Ukrainian Community Society of Ivan Franko. There are several parking spots available just outside the hall's front door.

In compliance with the province-wide health orders, we are only accepting double-vaccinated people into the studio, you may be required to show your vaccination records upon arrival. Masks are now optional. Let's keep everyone safe and keep the art alive!

We assure you that we do our very best to create a learning environment without compromising your safety. We check vaccination records and conduct Covid-19 assessments prior to any class/course/event. Rest assured, we've got your back!

We encourage rotation of partners in class to maximise your learning in swing dancing and to nurture a supportive community who cheers each other on. Nevertheless, should you ever feel uncomfortable in any type of situation, whether it be the rotation or the connection, you are advised to bring this to our attention immediately. Your ease is our priority, and we will not question your reason of discomfort. You can reach out to us through our contact page, email us, or speak to us privately before or after classes/events. We will arrange for you to stick to one partner that you feel comfortable with throughout the entire class/course/event.

You are welcome to ask anybody for a dance. The most natural way to ask someone whom you've never danced with before is to first make eye contact to communicate your intent to approach the other person. Then, politely ask "Would you like to dance?" Most of the time, people will not decline your offer. It's a social dance after all! However, everybody also has the right to decline a dance if they feel the need to. Please respect other people's comfort level and space. The worst thing that can happen is just a no, and you dance with someone else who wants to dance!