Part three found here.

Night Club Dancing

So far, we have discussed private dancing parties.

A restaurant, featuring dancing, is quite different. Here your only obligation is to the people of your own party. A cut-in from a stranger should never be accepted… nor should it be offered. A man should avoid leaving his date alone at the table unless it is really necessary. Otherwise, she may be subjected to unwelcome attention.

Most restaurant and night club dance floors are tiny in size. So, in consideration of your partner and your neighbors, you should avoid complicated steps. Dance simply and follow the line of direction. This means to progress around the room, clockwise. Shorten your steps to fit the limitation of space.

One Last Word

It is not bad manners to suggest sitting down before the dance is over. That is, if you suggest the idea tactfully. Either partner can say: “It’s warm in here, don’t you think so? Shall we sit out and cool off for a few moments?” Or, “It’s crowded, isn’t it? I’m anxious to talk to you anyway—shall we sit down?”

From now on, try to think more kindly of the word “etiquette”—it protects you, too; don’t you think so?

A Few Remaining Tips…

• Don’t give helpful pointers while dancing. It makes you sound fault-finding.
• Don’t steer your partner around the floor like a bicycle.
• Don’t dance side-saddle.
• Don’t chew gum in time to music. Don’t chew gum in your partner’s ear. Maybe… don’t chew gum!
• Don’t be so serious. Leave your business face at the office when you step out.
• Don’t say you hate dancing just because you don’t know how.
• If you want to lead a man to the altar—don’t lead him on the dance floor.
• Don’t let old-fashioned dancing date you!
• When you make a misstep, don’t blame the orchestra.
• Don’t brag “I never had a lesson in my life.”
• Don’t keep on dancing for “politeness’ sake” when neither of you is having fun.
• Don’t dance passively—be glad you’re alive.