In Group Lessons, do the instructors ALWAYS rotate the couples?

Question

I want to take social dance lessons with my boyfriend. He's game, but he's also shy. He isn't interested in the social dance lessons at our school because the classes are huge, and the instructors have everybody rotate partners every few minutes. I asked him how he would feel if we took lessons together someplace where we would be allowed to stay together for the whole time, and he said he's fine with that idea. I thought that would be easy! However, everyplace I've looked so far advertises the fact that they have people rotate (so that you don't have to come with a partner). I'm getting annoyed. Should I stop looking? What are my chances of finding what I'm looking for?

I realize that we could drop over $100 a lesson to pay for private lessons for the two of us, but we're students! We don't have that kind of cash. A date for us costs $25 or less...

Answer 1

I do know that there are places. It is really annoying to have to dance with someone who you don't want to dance with (ie people who smell bad). I think many places rotate people so it can be a social atmosphere and not everyone has a willing boyfriend like you. It is really sweet that you guys want to do this together. I hope you can find what you are looking for because I know it does exist.

Answer 2

No they do not. In the social ballroom classes that I used to help teach we NEVER made people rotate. I have taken classes where the instructors politely ASKED people who were willing to rotate to do so. This is usually done when there is an imbalance of lead and follows (men to women). I have NEVER been in a class where people were actually forced to rotate.

I hope you find something!

p.s. For what it's worth, maybe down the line when he has more confidence - dancing with other people make you a better dancer in the long run.

Answer 3

I can understand the hesistancy to rotate, especially for shy/introverted people.  However, from a dance perspective, instructors rotate partners because you LEARN better.  When you only dance with one person, you learn how to follow/lead ONLY that person, and aren't actually learning the dance or how you can dance with other people eventually.  Try swing dancing, they usually offer beginning/intermediate lessons before the dance, included in admission, for only around $10 each.  Way more economical.  However, if it's really an issue right now, until he feels more comfortable (though be wary, he may stay "not-comfortable forever), step to the side and in private ask the teachers if you can not rotate for now.  Most of 'em should be understanding, though they will try to persuade you because of the learning benefits :)