Wondering what to wear, what to bring, or whether you’ll be the only beginner in the room? Here’s exactly what to expect at your first adult dance class at Dance Moves of Charleston — no experience required.
Thinking about trying an adult dance class in Charleston, SC, but not quite sure what to expect?
You’re not alone.
Some of the most common questions we hear are:
Am I going to be the oldest person there?
What if I’ve never danced before?
Will people judge me?
What should I wear? Do I need dance shoes?
At Dance Moves of Charleston, our adult program is made for adults of different ages, backgrounds, and levels of dance experience. Some danced for years growing up, some are returning after decades away, and others are walking into a dance studio for the very first time.
There’s a place for all of them.
Am I Too Old or Too Young?
No!
Our adult dancers cover a wide range of ages, and there isn’t a “right” age to start or return to dance.
You may be one of the younger people in the room. You may be one of the older people. Most likely, you’ll be dancing alongside people of several different ages.
Our classes aren’t about fitting into a certain age group or looking a certain way. They’re about moving, learning, having fun, and doing something that feels good in your body.
What If I’ve Never Danced Before?
Come anyway!
Our adult classes are open level, which means you may have someone who danced for years next to someone taking their very first class.
Our instructors know how to teach different levels within the same room. They’ll modify movements for newer dancers and offer more advanced options for those who want an additional challenge.
You don’t need to know dance terminology or be able to keep up with the person next to you. Our teachers will meet you where you are.
What Should I Wear?
Don’t overthink it.
Wear something comfortable that allows you to move. Leggings, athletic pants, shorts, a tank top, a T-shirt, or whatever workout clothes make you feel good are all fine.
If you already own dancewear and want to wear it, great. If not, there’s no need to buy a new wardrobe for class.
Do I Need Dance Shoes?
It depends on the class, but don’t let shoes stop you from trying a class.
For ballet and tap, you’ll ultimately want the appropriate shoes. Tap shoes are necessary to create the sounds and rhythms you’re learning.
For jazz, there’s more flexibility. You may choose jazz shoes, socks, or bare feet.
If you’re brand new and don’t know what to buy, don’t stress about it. Come to class first, talk to your instructor, and figure out what works best for you from there.
What Should I Bring?
Not much!
- Yourself
- A water bottle, if you’d like one
- Dance shoes, if you have them
- An openness to trying something new
That’s really it.
What Happens During Class?
Every style is a little different, but most classes include a warm-up, technique or movement exercises, and combinations or choreography.
And yes, there will probably be moments when your brain knows exactly what it’s supposed to do and your feet have completely different plans.
That’s part of learning!
Our instructors give modifications and options throughout class so you can work at a level that feels right for you.
Will People Judge Me?
This may be the biggest concern adults have when trying a dance class, and it’s something we take seriously.
Dance Moves is a judgment-free zone.
Everyone comes in with a different story, body, age, ability, and level of experience. We’re not interested in comparing one adult dancer to another.
You can miss a step. You can forget the combination. You can turn the wrong way, laugh, and start again.
Nobody is keeping score.
We want you to feel comfortable moving your body, learning something new, challenging yourself, getting some exercise, and having fun while doing it.
Just Show Up
Your first adult dance class doesn’t require a perfect outfit, years of experience, or a certain level of flexibility.
You just need to show up.
At Dance Moves of Charleston, our adult classes are designed to meet you where you are. Challenge yourself when you want to. Modify when you need to. Move your body, enjoy the music, and hopefully leave feeling a little better than when you walked in.
If you’ve been thinking about trying an adult dance class in Charleston, SC, pick a class that sounds fun and give it a try.
We’ll meet you right where you are.
