How do I find a dance partner?

Here's the formula that I've observed: ask someone that you dance well with if they'd like to get together to practice a couple times to work on something together, if it goes well keep scheduling. You'll probably do this with several people as you look for someone who you work well with and who has compatible goals. As mentioned by others, joining a troupe can be a good way to find people as it's a group practice session.

Tell someone you dance well with that you want to enter a competition with them. A goal with a date helps. Arrange a regular practice.

That’s how I was asked.

(And we won the comp!)

Easiest way would be to partake in activities that people seeking a dance partner would participate.

Advanced/themed classes, audition for dance troupes, go to festivals and take part of dancing contests, start teaching,...

You might find some people that want something like you want and your personalities and styles are compatible, go for it and try it.

You might have a toughter time because there tend to be more follows than leaders, but don't get discouraged by this. OTOH do learn to lead and practice some solo dancing, competitors tend to be expected to do some solo too, and top dancers are expected to know both roles at least at a decent level.

You can start practicing by yourself. Record yourself doing drills and solo dancing, correct your posture and keep your feet under your center. Practice footwork, try to be lighter and heavier while social dancing, learn more musicality, express yourself, be a dancer.

i am in a similar position.

if you go to a class, scope out leads who arrive on their own who you enjoy dancing with and ask if they want to meet up to practice on a weekend or after class. develop a connection from there.

i understand aerials and advanced jumps require trust and confidence to be built so it’s not a quick process

I'm a leader, recently moved to London. I haven't dance in ages but looking to get back to dancing again. Yesterday I had my first class here! If you are in London, pm me.

I was at a workshop recently and one of the instructors asked why we make a big deal about dance partners (he got down on one knee and dramatically asked his teaching partner if she'd be his dance partner).

He said make plans to practice with a group of people because a) if you invite 4 people only one will show up anyway and b) dancing with only one person is good for creating/reinforcing bad habits anyway.

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