It's very close to the Theatrical Oriental Dance Festival which has so many workshops, it's hard to choose. So I thought I'd do a little piece on workshop etiquette.
Not all teachers like coin belts. Rather don't wear them, or have one in your bag but don't wear it unless the teacher says "get out a coin belt".
For me personally, I don't like coin belts in certain circumstances. For example, during warm and cool down, while zilling, or during soft lyrical pieces. I'm fine with them for beginners and when drilling shimmies so that the students and myself can hear the sounds of the movements.
Make sure you have everything you need for your workshops. If you don't have everything you need, then arrange to borrow well in advance. You don't want to be begging around the students just before the workshop begins.
Usually I have a bag with everything I might need. Zills, veil, various scarves, dance shoes, yoga mat, water and sustained energy snacks (nuts and dried fruit packs work nicely for me).
Remember that even if your teacher is in the workshop with you, they aren't the teacher right now. Don't ask them for help during the workshop. They are there as a student. Ask the dancer giving the workshop.
Be mindful of those around you. Everyone wants to see the teacher so don't stand directly in front of someone. Try place your self so that both you and the people behind you can see.
Don't take up too much space. Some workshops can get very full and having people bump into you can be very annoying.
In my experience, having a cane fly by your nose repeatedly because the person next to you takes huge steps, is distracting and affects your dancing.
Don't have a fat conversation with your long lost friend who you haven't seen since the last festival. You can chat before and after, not during. Even if the teacher is able to ignore your babbling, those around you might not be able to hear with you chattering away.
Remember to take water breaks. Keep yourself hydrated! Also have some snacks available for breaks or between workshops. You need to keep your energy up so get the most out of the classes you are attending.
I look forward to meeting everyone at TODF 2016. Keep an eye out for me, come and say hi, and take a picture with me for my blog.