In Iran, dancing as a hobby is becoming increasingly popular. The surge in interest in the sport is making it difficult for the strict Islamic regime to impose its rules on its citizens. The regime upholds religious standards for the people of Iran, such as what is appropriate behavior between the two genders. Dancing together is not allowed.
Because the state’s Islamic morality codes forbid women and men who are not related from congregating in private, dance classes are not openly advertised. News of classes is spread by word of mouth, and participants then bring along their friends and families.
Instructors also use closed Facebook groups to advertise classes and to gauge interest in a particular class. However, even on Facebook they do not disclose the address of the dance studio, and instead ask those interested to contact them directly for more details.
In many cases, families are not against their children dancing, but don't want them to take the risk of attending underground classes.
