As much as we try to avoid it, sometimes we’re late to class – it happens. There are some common norms around entering a class late.
If you arrive and there is an exercise in progress, wait to enter the class until the class is between exercises. Use that time to do some plies in the lobby and get prepared to enter class ready to join the class in progress.
Depending on your teacher, they may prefer an apology or acknowledgement for being late. Do your best to be brief and as non-disruptive as possible. A simple, “I’m sorry I’m late,” as you find your spot at the barre is usually what is expected.
Ideally, we use the restroom before class so we don’t need to exit the studio during class. However, sometimes we must use the bathroom during class. The best time for non-disruptively exiting to use the bathroom is in the transition from the barre stretch to the center. As dancers are transitioning, you may wish to quietly exit and quickly use the restroom.
Use the same late etiquette to return to class after stepping out of the studio. Wait until the class is between exercises. If you’re able to see into the class, try and learn the exercise while you’re waiting to re-enter so you’re ready to join in immediately.
Some “don’ts:”
- Don’t exit class to avoid an exercise you don’t like. The exercises in class are cumulative (they build on each other), so even the exercises that are not our favorite are important for our success in class and in our training.
- Don’t enter class while the music is playing and attempt to join an exercise you haven’t learned yet. If the teacher invites you to come in and join, you may enter mid-exercise.
- Don’t enter slowly or casually. Efficiently enter so you don’t delay the class or cause too much disruption.
- Don’t ask the teacher to demonstrate the combination if you missed the demonstration. Step back or to the side and use your powers of observation to pick up the combination and rejoin the class.
- Don’t beat yourself up about being late once. It happens to all of us.
If you’re going to be more than 10 or 15 minutes late, you should consider observing class only. The later you are, the less safe it is to join class midway. Your teacher may ask you to sit out if you’re too late. That’s not as a punishment – it’s for your safety as a dancer.
Questions about what you should do if you’re late? Email Danspace or ask your front desk person.
