The Hot Club of San Francisco is heating up our main stage with a night of swing. Put on your dancing shoes and jitterbug the night away.

First time on the dance floor? Don’t worry about it! Elayne from Elayne’s Dance has some advice for first-time dancers and is also holding dance lessons leading up to the event.

We asked Elayne for her take on the Swing Dance Party and the benefit of dancing!

*   What is your favorite style of dance?

Argentine Tango - Tango by its own nature allows a personal interpretation of the music, an interpretation that becomes an expression of the individual's personality in his or her way of dancing. Creating beautiful movement, relying on unspoken communication between partners, awareness of body and mind connection, sensitivity to touch and your partner’s signals, waiting for the lead and follow…it all creates a dynamic interaction that cannot compare to any other dance.

*   What should patrons expect from your dance lessons?

To learn the dynamics of lead and follow roles and a few basics to make the experience more fun!

  *   What do you say to first-time dancers?

Be patient with yourself.  And congratulations on getting out of your comfort zone!

  *   Why are dance lessons a great gift or date night out?

Dance lessons are the gift that last a lifetime. Something that can be shared with your significant other or friends for the rest of your life.

  *   What do you say to people who are nervous to come solo?

Dancing is a social affair.  Everyone is a bit nervous, and we change partners so you'll get to meet new people and maybe even find a dance partner.

  *   How long have you been dancing?

20 years, with most of that time being in NWA. I've also traveled nationally and internationally to study with the masters and to teach in other countries such as Italy, France and Argentina.

  *   What do you like about the music that The Hot Club of San Francisco will present?

They're high energy and make me want to jump out of my seat!  

  *   What style of music will be danced to in the lessons?

This band is a relatively high tempo Swing also known as East Coast Swing/Jitterbug.

  *   What do you say to encourage people to try dancing or come to your lessons?

It's great exercise for both your body and your brain!