New to Modern Jive?

Everyone starts somewhere…

Whether you’ve never danced a step in your life or haven’t danced since school, you’re in exactly the right place.

At Dance with Stacey, we specialise in helping complete beginners discover just how enjoyable dancing can be. You don’t need any experience, confidence or special ability – just a willingness to give it a go!

Have a read through some of the questions we’re asked most often. And if there’s anything we’ve missed, just get in touch – we’re always happy to help.

Is this you?

✔ “I’ve got two left feet!”

✔ “I’m worried I’ll get it wrong.”

✔ “I’m coming on my own.”

✔ “I’ve never danced before.”

✔ “I’m not very confident.”

✔ “I’m too old to start.”

✔ “I’m worried everyone will be watching me.”

If you’ve nodded at any of those… you’re exactly the kind of person we teach every week.

What IS Modern Jive?

Modern Jive (also known as Leroc, Ceroc, Social Jive), is a fun, easy-to-learn partner dance that can be danced to a wide range of music, from current chart tracks, to classic dancefloor favourites.

You’ll learn a selection of moves each week that can be mixed and matched on the dancefloor, giving you the freedom to make every dance different.

Check out our ‘History of Modern Jive’ page to find out how Modern Jive links to Rock’n’Roll, Salsa and More! >>>

What happens on my first visit?

When you arrive

You’ll be greeted with a friendly smile and shown where everything is by one of our welcoming crew.

During the beginners class

We break everything down into easy, bite-sized steps. Nobody expects you to know anything beforehand. We’ll guide you through. If you would prefer, one of our crew team can stay with you through your first class.

Throughout your visit

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to practise in a relaxed atmosphere, with lots of friendly dancers happy to help.

Before you leave

You’ll have already learnt a handful of moves, met some lovely people and, hopefully, be looking forward to coming back!

Do I need to bring a partner?

This is one of the questions we’re asked most often! And the simple answer is No, you don’t need to bring a partner.

Many people arrive on their own, and others come with friends, family, work colleagues or neighbours.

During classes we rotate partners every few minutes, giving everyone the chance to dance with different people. This helps you learn more quickly and makes for a welcoming, social atmosphere.

Do I have to change partners in classes?

No. We encourage changing partners during our classes because it’s a great way to learn and makes the class feel friendly and sociable straight away, but it’s entirely your choice.

If you bring a partner and would prefer to stay together, that’s absolutely fine – simply stay with your partner when the class moves round.

What should I wear?

Keep it simple! Wear something comfortable that lets you move freely.

Some people enjoy dressing up a little for dancing while others come along in casual clothes – there’s no formal dress code.

Comfortable shoes with fairly smooth soles are ideal, but there’s absolutely no need to buy dance shoes before you start. Just leave the high heels, flip-flops and heavy walking boots at home if you can!

What if I make mistakes?

You will.

Everyone does.

Even experienced dancers still make mistakes from time to time!

Learning to dance isn’t about getting everything perfect. It’s about enjoying yourself while improving a little each week.

We promise you’ll never be made to feel embarrassed.

Will everyone be watching me?

Definitely not!

Everyone is far too busy concentrating on their own dancing.

In fact, most of the people in the room will remember exactly how nervous they felt on their own first night.

Our regular dancers are incredibly supportive and love welcoming new faces.

What if I’m older?

You’re not.

Or at least, you’re almost certainly not!

Modern Jive isn’t about being young—it’s about having fun.

Our dancers span a wide range of ages, and you’ll be made very welcome.

What if I’m unfit?

You don’t need to be super fit.

You dance at your own pace, take breaks whenever you need to and gradually build confidence and stamina over time.

Many people are surprised by just how enjoyable the exercise feels because they’re having too much fun to notice!

Can I just watch?

If you’re feeling unsure, you’re very welcome to pop in, have a look around and chat with us before deciding whether you’d like to join in.

We don’t generally have spectators staying to watch our classes and events, but we’re always happy for a nervous new dancer to come through the door, meet us and get a feel for things first.

That said, the best way to find out what Modern Jive is really like is to give it a go!

What does it cost?

Tuesdays – Worthing – £6
Thursdays – Bognor Regis – £8

Both of our weekly classes are pay-as-you-go, so there’s no membership or long-term commitment.

New dancers joining us on Thursday evenings can also take advantage of our 5 Classes for £25 New Beginners Offer – saving £15 on our usual weekly price. The offer is available exclusively on your first night with us.