WCS Technique Tune Up: Open PracticeJun 13, 6:00pmFred Astaire Dance Studios - Bloomfield HillsMIWCS would like to invite the Timeless and Fundamentals communities to come together for a one-hour open practice this Saturday, June 13th, from 6:00 - 7:00pm. This is a low-pressure space designed specifically for West Coast Swing dancers looking to sharpen their techniques with other dancers.


Cost: $10 at the door

Time: Saturday, June 13th, from 6:00 - 7:00pm

Location: Fred Astaire Bloomfield Hills


Format:
5:40 - Doors open
6:00 - Welcome and Open Practice with set playlist
7:00 - Practice ends. Please stay for Second Saturday!

Second Saturday Dance sold separately.

$15 online price at MIWCS.com or

$20 at the door

7:30 - 8:30 Beginner and Intermediate lessons

8:30 - 11 Social dance party


Open Practice Etiquette & Ground Rules

To ensure a productive, safe, and respectful environment for the Foundation in Fundamentals community, please observe the following guidelines during our open practice sessions:

1. The "Switch" Rule
To gain the most versatile understanding of your progress, please switch partners every 2–3 songs. This helps prevent "muscle memory" specific to only one person and ensures everyone gets time on the floor.

2. Use "I" Statements for Feedback
When discussing movements, focus on your own experience rather than your partner's "mistakes."

Try: "I'm having trouble finding the connection on count 4."

Avoid: "You aren't giving me connection on count 4."

No matter how experienced a dancer you are, remember to reflect on how you are showing up with each practice partner.

3. No "Floor Teaching"
Unless your partner explicitly asks for a critique, please refrain from floor teaching. Open practice is for repetition and internalizing, not for unsolicited instruction.

4. Instructor "Quick-Assist"
Instructors are on-site and happy to help with brief questions or specific points of confusion. Please feel free to flag down an instructor if you need a “quick assist" on a pattern structure or technique.

Please keep in mind that this time is for community practice, not for providing full private lessons.

5. Communicate Your Goals
Before the music starts, take 15 seconds to tell your partner what you are working on (e.g., "I’m focusing on my triple steps" or "I'm practicing my pitch"). This helps your partner support your specific growth for that dance.

6. Confirm Comfort Level

Unless you get specific consent, refrain from weight supported moves or lifts.

**If something feels physically unsafe, please alert your partner or a session lead immediately

Additional Ground Rules
The "Yellow Light" Rule: Respect the "No" or the "Not right now." If someone needs a break to hydrate or just wants to solo-drill, respect their space without question.

Stay in the Slot: Be mindful of your "dance neighborhood." In West Coast Swing, we dance in a linear track. Avoid drifting into other couples' slots to prevent collisions.

Mind the Volume: Keep discussions at a conversational volume. We want to hear the music's phrasing and ensure everyone can concentrate on their own practice.

Hygiene & Safety: Please wear clean dance shoes. If you’re sweating through a shirt, consider bringing a spare. We share a close space, so let’s keep it comfortable for everyone! ... See MoreSee Less