Scottish country dance etiquette
Dance etiquette
We want everyone to have a great time when they’re out dancing. Here are some of the ways we can all help to create a safe and comfortable place to dance Scottish.
Be inclusive - there’s room for all of us on the dance floor
We want every dancer and musician of every level of experience to feel comfortable and safe at events.
We welcome all dancers and music lovers regardless of gender/gender identity, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, religion or employment status.
Respect others
Look out for each other and your community
Personal boundaries are paramount
Always respect personal boundaries. Dancing can involve close contact with others and we must respect each others’ personal space. If someone tells you that you are making them feel uncomfortable, respect their requirement for space.
It's ok to say no
If you ask someone to dance and they say no, respect their decision and ask someone else. No one is obliged to dance with you, and no one should feel obliged to accept a dance if they don’t feel like it.
If someone asks you to dance and you don’t want to, you can say “no thank you” – you don’t need to offer an explanation. You may then ask or say yes to someone else, if you want to.
For more class etiquette - see class tips
Dance safely
Dance cautiously and gently with an unfamiliar partner. Be prepared to modify your dancing style to suit your partner’s ability.
Don’t add embellishments like twirls, birls and spins to your dancing unless you can do so safely .