If you’re new to country dancing in Orlando or just want to get better, this video from Anthony and Rose breaks it down in the most real, no-nonsense way. These aren’t fancy moves or hard-to-follow techniques—these are the 5 things every dancer should know to get out on the floor, connect with a partner, and actually enjoy the dance.
Let’s start with Tip #5: Dance with your partner.
Sounds obvious, right? But it’s easy to forget when the music’s loud and you’re trying to remember steps. Rose points out something super important—ladies, it’s not your job to stay perfectly on beat with the music. Your number one job is to stay in sync with your partner. Even if the timing is a little off, if the two of you are moving together, the dance still works. But if one of you is on beat and the other is off, it’s gonna feel awkward no matter what. Stay with your partner first—everything else comes second.
Tip #4 is Stay in Your Lane.
That means knowing your role and sticking to it. Leaders and followers each have their own jobs, and when one person tries to do both, things go sideways. Guys, it’s your job to lead. That means choosing the moves and making sure your partner is safe and comfortable. Ladies, that means waiting for the lead—not guessing, jumping ahead, or throwing in turns just because you feel like it. Trust your role, and trust your partner to handle theirs.
Tip #3: Guys, you don’t need to show off.
Seriously. No one’s impressed if you’re out there cranking crazy moves that your partner can’t follow. In fact, that’s the quickest way to make sure she never wants to dance with you again. Your real job as a leader? Make her feel good. Make her look good. Make the dance smooth, connected, and fun. The saying goes, “She’s the picture, you’re the frame.” But Anthony takes it one step further—she’s the picture and the frame… you’re just the nail holding it all up. 😄
Tip #2: Ladies, you gotta say yes.
This might be the only time in life where you don’t get to say no! In all seriousness, this is about following the lead. If it feels like he’s asking you to turn, then turn. But don’t just assume based on what you think should happen. Rose explains it perfectly: if it feels like you should turn, but you weren’t led into it, don’t go. Trust the physical cue, not your guesswork. This is one of those things that makes social dancing work—it’s not just doing patterns, it’s about feeling the connection.
And finally, Tip #1: Have Fun.
This might sound simple, but it’s actually the most important one of all. If you’re not having fun, what’s the point? Partner dancing is social. It’s meant to be fun, lighthearted, and feel-good. That said, it’s a lot more fun when you and your partner are dancing well together—so yeah, working on your skills helps. But don’t overthink it. You’re not curing diseases or solving world problems. You’re just two people enjoying music, movement, and maybe even making new friends on the dance floor.
Anthony and Rose end the video by asking what you think. Did they miss anything? Got your own tip that made you a better dancer? Drop it in the comments and let them know. Who knows, maybe your idea will turn into the next video.
So if you’re in Orlando and you’re looking to become a better dancer—whether you’re brand new or just wanting to get back out there—these five tips are a solid place to start. And hey, if you want to learn more moves and practice in person, come join us for classes at Country Dance Orlando. We’ve got a spot on the floor saved just for you.