Info

Code of conduct

We want the Garage Hoppers Festival to be a place where everyone feels at ease, whether it's your first festival or your hundredth. Swing was born as a social music and dance: we dance together, with joy and respect. Here's what we ask of everyone: participants, teachers, musicians, DJs, staff and volunteers.

01

Asking, and saying no

  • Ask whoever you like, whatever their role, gender or level: dancing with newer dancers helps the whole community grow.
  • You can always say no, without giving a reason. A no is not an insult: accept it and don't insist, whether by asking why or asking again shortly after.
  • You can stop a dance at any time if you feel uncomfortable or if something hurts.
02

Respect and connection

Respect your partner, the people around you and yourself. Remember that boundaries can vary from person to person. Keep good faith and trust in your communication with others. If something doesn't feel right, speak up. Our staff will be available if you need support.

Connect with your partner in a way that feels comfortable for both of you. If your partner keeps using a connection that hurts or feels wrong, let them know: they may not be aware of it.

03

On the dance floor

  • Dance with your partner, not against them: adapt to their level and preferences, and check in on how things feel (connection, speed, closeness).
  • No aerials or acrobatics on the social floor: they belong in performances and competitions, with willing partners and enough space.
  • Be aware of the people around you. If you bump into someone, stop for a moment, check they're okay and apologise.
  • No unsolicited teaching: don't correct your partners at parties. If someone asks for advice, that's great.
04

In class

Be on time, let us know in advance if you'll miss a class, respect the teachers' work, pay attention during explanations and don't disturb practice.

05

Hygiene and self care

We dance close together and for many hours: bring spare shirts, use deodorant, keep a mint and a towel handy. Your partners will thank you.

06

Respect for everyone

Discriminatory behaviour or comments based on gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, origin, religion, age, appearance, disability or dance level are not accepted. Swing owes a great deal to the African American communities where it was born: let's remember that with respect.

07

Zero tolerance for harassment

At the festival we do not tolerate harassment of any kind, on the dance floor, in class, at the hotel, online or at any moment of the event. For example:

  • unwanted physical contact or hands where they shouldn't be;
  • unwelcome sexual comments, jokes or advances;
  • insisting after a no, following someone, persistent unwanted attention;
  • taking photos or videos of someone without their consent.

Consent applies throughout the festival: a dance is a dance, not an invitation to anything else. Alcohol is never an excuse.

08

If something happens

If you feel uncomfortable, if you've experienced or witnessed inappropriate behaviour, or if you simply need to talk to someone, don't stay alone with it:

  • talk to a member of our team or go to the festival registration desk: that's part of why we're there;
  • email us at info@garagehoppers.it, even after the festival.

Every report is listened to and handled confidentially. You don't need "proof" or to be sure it's serious enough: we'd rather know.

09

What we do

Depending on the situation, we may talk to the people involved, give a warning, ask someone to leave the festival without a refund and decide not to accept them at future events. In the most serious cases we will contact the relevant authorities.

Thank you all for helping us make the Garage Hoppers Festival a safe, welcoming place full of swing!