FAQ
Learning to dance can be scary, but we are here to make the process as fun and friendly as possible. Here are some things to know before you begin.
We have our lessons on Thursday evenings, and there are two time blocks. First from 6:30-7:30pm and second from 7:30-8:30pm at McGowan Hall, 1305 N Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN 46202. Doors open by 6:15pm. Please arrive early to get checked in and change your shoes, especially if it’s your first night with us! This is also a great time to get to know other students and ask the instructors questions before class begins. Lessons are immediately followed by the social dance from 8:30-10pm which are included with lesson passes or can be bought separately. All of our lessons are progressive which means that each week we build on the material taught the previous week. Each lesson series rotates on a monthly basis. You can join a new session the first or second week of the month. Register here.
We got you! Each level will have noted prereqs in the lesson description, so you’ll be able to self-place based on that information. If you’re still not sure where you belong, shoot us an email and we’ll help guide you. Your instructors may also recommend an alternative class to you once you begin taking lessons with us if they think it’ll be a better fit for where you are in your dance journey.
Each of our 4-week, month-long series is progressive, which means each week builds upon the one before, so we hope you’ll join us for all 4 weeks! If you absolutely cannot make it to the first week of the series, it is possible to join for the remainder of the month of lessons beginning with week 2. Or, if you must miss a week in the middle, you are still welcome to attend the series – just know that we will only do a short review of the previous week’s material at the beginning of each week, so be ready to dive in. We are not able to offer a discounted rate for those who will miss a week of the series.
You are always welcome to retake classes you’ve already done to keep solidifying your knowledge. A cost effective way to do this is by signing up for a month of lessons in the level you are currently in! Once you are paid for a month of lessons, you’ll be able to jump into any lower level class for FREE that month. It’s a no-brainer!
Welcome! We’re excited to have you! Utilize the prereqs noted in each lesson series description to self-place wherever you think you might fit. If you have questions, reach out to us at [email protected]! Your instructors may also recommend an alternative class to you once you begin taking lessons with us if they think it’ll be a better fit for where you are in your dance journey.
No partner is required, but bringing friends is always encouraged! There will be a rotation during classes to help better learn how to socially dance with a variety of people.
Something comfortable, easy to move in, and something you don’t mind getting a little sweaty. Swing dancing is a hard (but very fun) workout! You will want shoes that give you support and are comfortable; you always want shoes that won’t too easily slide off your feet. High heels are not typically recommended , and most dancers wear sneakers. Since there are often spins in swing dancing, you will ideally want shoes that will allow some sliding. Also bring another pair of shoes with you in case the weather gets bad, we don’t want to track the water and dirt to the dance floor.
Want some music to practice too? Try Naptown Stomps Practice Spotify Playlist.
While dancing in crowded venues it is easy to get sweaty. Most dancers bring an extra shirt or two to change into as the night goes on as dancing with someone who has sweated through their clothing is unpleasant. Also consider bringing deodorant and breath mints to stave off personal odors. If someone is particularly smelly, speak to one of the instructors or staff and they will delicately approach the issue with the person.
Though we do provide a cooler with water, we do not provide cups. Please bring your own bottle or other beverage container to the dance.
Most of our attendees are between the ages of 18 and 60 and lessons are geared toward an adult crowd. But we welcome people of all ages – One of the great things about swing dance is how much it is enjoyed across all generations! Minors will need to be accompanied by an adult. Parents are welcome to bring their children with them while attending lessons, provided they do not disrupt the flow of class.
Classes require a minimum of 8 students to run. If we do not reach the minimum, Naptown Stomp reserves the right to cancel the class. In this event, all or a portion of registration fees will be refunded to the registered students. If you are unable to attend due to a COVID exposure or other illness please contact the President at [email protected].
A full refund is given to students who have pre-registered and cancel up to 24 hours before the first lesson. We do not give refunds after the first class meeting, even for injury, illness, work transfers, etc. Questions can be directed to [email protected].