The phrase "dances around an issue" implies avoiding a straightforward conversation by evading or circling around a controversial topic. The opposite approach to this would be to face the issue head-on and take a direct and honest approach to addressing concerns. Instead of "dancing around an issue," one could "address the elephant in the room," "get straight to the point," "tackle the matter at hand," "call a spade a spade," or "confront the issue head-on." Choosing one of these alternatives can help to keep conversations productive, honest, and efficient rather than beating around the bush and wasting valuable time.