Line dancing is sociable, lively and easy for a group to join without partners or previous dance experience. A successful session still depends on choosing an appropriate length, providing enough safe floor space and making sure guests know what footwear to wear. This guide explains how Hazel teaches and what organisers should arrange before the event.
Which events suit line dancing?
Line dancing works well at weddings, hen parties, birthday and anniversary celebrations, corporate events, military functions, social clubs, village events, fundraisers and Country & Western or Wild West occasions. Hazel has taught small private groups and large gatherings involving hundreds of people, provided the available space is suitable.
The event does not have to be themed. Guests can wear ordinary clothes, although Western dress can add to the atmosphere if the organiser wishes. Hazel normally teaches in a country-style outfit.
Why complete beginners can join in
Most participants are beginners, although some may have tried line dancing before. Hazel selects accessible dances and explains each movement clearly. The aim is for everyone to enjoy taking part, not to perform like experienced dancers.
No partner is required. Most dances are performed individually in lines. An occasional partner dance may be included, but nobody is excluded simply because they arrived alone.
Suitable ages and abilities
Sessions are principally intended for adults, but older children and teenagers are welcome when they are mobile, can understand spoken instructions and are comfortable taking part in a group. Line dancing can work particularly well for mixed generations.
Each participant must decide whether the activity is suitable for them and dance within their own capabilities. Anyone may pause or sit out whenever necessary.
How Hazel teaches each dance
Hazel breaks every dance into manageable steps and demonstrates each movement before the music starts. Because many dances change direction, she moves around the group and teaches from the front, both sides and the rear so that participants can see the steps from each viewpoint.
There is a complete walk-through and talk-through before the dance is tried with music. Hazel adjusts the choice and pace of the dances to suit the group.
How long should a session last?
For most events Hazel recommends one continuous 60-minute session. This allows time to teach and dance several routines and gives everyone a proper opportunity to join in without the activity becoming overlong. Although it is great fun, line dancing requires concentration and can be physically demanding for some participants.
One session or two?
An alternative is two 30-minute sessions with a break of about 10 to 15 minutes. A continuous session usually works better because, once guests sit down, visit the bar or move to another activity, it can be difficult to gather the same group again.
Choosing music
Hazel selects suitable music from an extensive collection that includes classic and modern country songs as well as pop music from the 1960s to the present day. She chooses songs to suit the event, the group and the available dancing space.
Requests can be discussed beforehand, but not every favourite song has the rhythm or structure needed for an appropriate beginner line dance.
How much dancing space is needed?
Allow approximately 1.2 m by 1.2 m for each participant. Dancers need room to move forwards, backwards and sideways without colliding. A smaller room may suit a small group, but restricted space limits both the number of dancers and the dances Hazel can safely teach.
There must also be a clear perimeter around the group because Hazel demonstrates from the front, sides and rear. When requesting a quotation, give the dimensions of the proposed dance area as well as the expected number of participants.
Choosing a safe floor or outdoor surface
A proper dance floor or polished wooden floor is best because it allows dancers to turn, pivot and slide comfortably. Whatever the surface, it must be flat, level, dry and free from hazards. Drinks, bags and loose cables must be kept outside the dancing area.
Flat, short grass can sometimes be used, but it must be free from holes, bumps, mud and slippery patches. Grass is not ideal for turning movements. Concrete or tarmac will only be considered after Hazel has assessed whether the surface is flat, dry and clear; these hard surfaces are not ideal.
Outdoor bookings must have a suitable wet-weather alternative agreed in advance.
Clothing and footwear
Participants should wear comfortable clothes and secure flat shoes or boots. Stilettos and flip-flops are not suitable. Organisers should give this advice to guests before the event rather than waiting until they arrive.
Sound equipment and electricity
Hazel brings two speakers, a music player and a headset radio microphone. Her electrical equipment is PAT tested and she carries an extension lead. The organiser must provide a standard 13-amp electrical socket within approximately four metres of the performance area.
A venue's or band's sound system can sometimes be used if it has suitable connections and this has been arranged in advance. Hazel still brings her own system as a backup.
Access parking and setting up
Free parking is required at the venue, as close as reasonably possible to the dancing area. Hazel needs access approximately 30 minutes before the session to bring in and set up the sound equipment.
If there are stairs or a significant carrying distance, the organiser must provide someone to help with the speakers and other equipment. Vehicle, loading and access restrictions must be disclosed before the booking is agreed.
What the organiser should provide
- a flat, level and adequately sized dancing area, cleared before Hazel arrives
- a standard 13-amp electrical socket within approximately four metres
- free parking close to the venue or performance area
- access at least 30 minutes before the session
- help carrying equipment where stairs or a long route are involved
- a suitable wet-weather alternative for an outdoor booking
- advance footwear guidance for participants
Common planning mistakes
- estimating capacity from the room's total size without allowing enough space for each dancer
- filling the dance area to the edge and leaving Hazel no room to demonstrate
- using a slippery, uneven or cluttered surface
- leaving drinks, bags or cables where dancers will move
- planning an outdoor session without a wet-weather alternative
- splitting the session without considering whether guests will return after the break
- failing to tell guests about suitable footwear
- expecting Hazel to carry equipment a long distance or upstairs without help
What Hazel needs to prepare a quotation
- the date, location, venue and postcode
- the type and theme of the event
- the expected number and ages of participants
- the dimensions of the dancing area
- the proposed floor or outdoor surface
- the event and requested session times
- whether one hour or a split session is preferred
- the available electrical supply
- parking, carrying distance, stairs and vehicle restrictions
- whether a venue or band sound system is available
- the wet-weather alternative for an outdoor booking
Final advice
A good line-dancing session feels relaxed because the practical arrangements have been settled beforehand. Give each dancer enough room, keep the floor clear, advise guests about footwear and allow Hazel time to set up the sound system. With a suitable group and dancing area, complete beginners can quickly learn the steps and enjoy dancing together.
Bookings and cancellations are subject to the current Terms and Conditions published on the website.