How Teachers Can Keep the Dance Floor Open - and the Community Welcoming

Every dance community has its rhythms - friendships that form, groups that click, familiar faces who always dance together. That’s natural! But sometimes, those comfortable patterns can quietly turn into something less welcoming: a clique.

As teachers and organizers, we’re in a unique position to keep the dance floor open - not just for steps and technique, but for connection. So how can we ensure that everyone is included?

Why Cliques Form (and Why They’re Usually Unintentional)

People naturally gravitate toward those they know. Dancers who train or perform together build bonds, and that’s a good thing. But if that closeness starts to feel closed off - if new or less experienced dancers don’t feel comfortable joining in - the whole atmosphere can shift.

The tricky part? No one usually means to exclude anyone. It just happens when comfort takes the lead and curiosity takes a back seat. So how can you avoid promoting dance cliques in your classes?

Five Ways to Keep Your Space Inclusive:

1. Set the tone from day one.
Tell your students early on that inclusivity is part of your community. Then show them by example.

Something simple like, “In our classes, we rotate and make sure everyone feels welcome,” goes a long way. Dancers who don’t want to rotate, change groups, or stand in a new spot in the room should be made to understand that they are expected to follow class rules. It’s okay if someone is having a bad day, or a specific issue is preventing them from participating properly. However, the general expectation should always be that everyone shares space and works with everyone.

2. Mix partners and change spaces often.
In partner dancing, rotation keeps the energy fresh and helps students learn from different body types and styles - while preventing groups from solidifying too tightly. In solo dance styles, changing lines and/or groups does the same.

When a student refuses to change partners or spots, it is worth pausing the class to explain why changing is beneficial. Of course nobody can be forced, but being clear about inclusivity and its benefits is important for creating a learning atmosphere that is positive and productive.

3. Design events for connection.
At events (socials, recitals, showcases), encourage dancers to mingle. Many dance studios use techniques, like a welcome circle, or asking everyone to dance with one new person, which can change the energy of the night.

If you have a bit more time, talking to the new people, introducing them to other dancers, and suggesting that more experienced students ask the newcomers to dance or show them around are all effective. After all, your students will follow your lead on what kind of attitude they should take in class and at studio events.

4. Celebrate inclusion publicly.
Notice and thank people who invite newcomers to join in. When you highlight that behavior, others will follow naturally.

Many teachers already make it a point to notice and acknowledge the progress their students make during class. Similarly, we can note when students act welcoming, helpful and nice to others, and point it out. After all, these behaviors can be just as important for learning as being on time and practicing.

5. Give everyone a way to belong.
People form cliques because they want connection. Channel that by offering open roles - class assistants, greeters, or volunteers - so everyone feels they’re part of something.

As an introvert, I often find it difficult to chat up new people. However, there is always an extrovert in the group. Introducing them to the new person, and asking them to dance with/help out the newcomer can go a long way in making the new person feel included, and the other student acknowledged and appreciated for their expertise. On the other hand, someone shy and quiet can be made to feel needed and important when asked to assist.

The Bottom Line

Cliques aren’t the enemy - comfort is. As leaders, we can keep comfort from turning into exclusion by modeling openness and gently encouraging variety.

When all dancers feel seen, welcomed, and included, something magical happens: the community grows stronger, and the dancing gets even better.

Feeling inspired to explore the world of dance? Dance Flavor offers live and on-demand classes in various styles. Don’t be shy -contact us with any questions, or to try a private class in the dance of your choice!