Shag Etiquette

Chatham Area Shag Association
Member of the Association of Carolina Shag Clubs

Shag Etiquette

It's okay for women to ask men to dance just as it is for
men to ask women to dance
Typically it's good form to accept an invitation to dance,
but if you don't want to dance say so politely
If someone turns you down, accept it graciously and ask
someone else to dance.
Lead your partner to the dance floor by the hand and be
sure to thank them at the end of the dance
Keep your opinions about your partner's dancing to
yourself. It is not good form to offer instruction to
someone in a social dance setting. It could be that you are
not doing the step correctly. If someone does ask for
help, take them away from the other dancers.
If you are in a dance class, let the instructor teach. The
instructor will ask for help if needed.
Establish a slot and continue to dance in it. Usually the
first couple on the dance floor will establish the slot.
Dance small. Don't dance all over the floor.
Leaders are responsible for looking out for the safety of
their partners. Keep them out of danger. Be aware of the
dancers around you.
Bumping into other dancers is inevitable. Always apologize
even if it is not your fault. Make sure no one is hurt.
If you are leading someone with fewer skills, dance to
their level. Don't showboat.
If you must give verbal leads do so quietly so only your
partner hears you.
If you are not dancing, stay off the dance floor. Move off
the floor to carry on a conversation.
Pay attention to the beat of the music. Being able to count
does not mean you are on beat.