BACHATA SATURDAYS
LoadingThese are Sarishtha’s house rules for every class and social. They are short, and they come down to one thing: everyone should enjoy the dance.
Ask — don’t assume. A simple “Would you like to dance?” is perfect.
And yes, anyone can ask anyone. Followers, please ask leaders too! Lead and follow are dance roles, not rules about who makes the first move.
No pulling, grabbing or steering someone onto the floor before they’ve said yes.
You are always allowed to say “No, thank you” to a dance. You don’t owe anyone a reason.
And if someone says no to you, take it gracefully — smile, say “no worries” and move on. Please don’t question them, pressure them or keep asking.
A no to a dance is simply a no to that dance. Nothing more needs to be read into it.
A dance should feel comfortable for both people.
If the connection feels too close, the handling is rough or forceful, someone ignores your request for space, or there are comments/touches that make you uncomfortable — you are absolutely allowed to create space, say something, or end the dance. You do not have to finish the song.
You can simply say “A little more space, please,” “Please don’t do that,” or “I’m going to stop here.”
If something happens that you’d rather not deal with alone, please come to Team Bachata Saturdays or WhatsApp us at 63608-43832.
Bachata can be close-contact dancing, so a little consideration goes a long way.
Please come in clean, fresh clothes and use deodorant. If you sweat a lot, carrying a spare T-shirt or small towel is always a good idea. Fresh breath is appreciated too.
Footwear: Clean socks or dedicated dance shoes. Outdoor shoes are strictly not allowed on the floor.
Basically: come the way you’d want your dance partner to come.
Love a good dance video — just make sure everyone involved is comfortable with it.
If you want to film your dance, check with your partner first. If you’re specifically filming another person or couple, please ask them before recording.
And before publicly posting or tagging someone, check that they’re okay with that too. Being happy to be filmed doesn’t automatically mean being happy to be posted.
Team Bachata Saturdays may also capture general photos or videos from our socials. If you would prefer not to appear in identifiable content, please tell us.
Socials are for social dancing, not unsolicited teaching. Please don’t correct, coach or critique your partner unless they have asked for feedback.
Dance to your partner’s comfort and level — not to show how many moves you know.
Be aware of the couples around you. On a crowded floor, make your movements smaller and safer. Dips, drops, lifts or forceful head/neck movements should never be sprung on someone without clear agreement and enough space.
And finally — be kind. Beginners, experienced dancers, leaders, followers, people you know and people you don’t: everyone deserves the same respect on the floor.
That’s really it. Ask. Listen. Respect the answer. Look after each other. And enjoy the dance.