INTRODUCTION:

Dancing has been a part of Jewish life since Biblical times. It is mentioned frequently in Tanakh and often talks about turning sadness into joy. Dance parties are also a way to let loose and have fun. This program is designed to frame a dance party into a Jewish context. 

MATERIALS:

• Good music – there are playlists on Youtube and Spotify that are readily accessible 
• Dancing as a part of Jewish life – Resource sheet below
• Venue 

PROGRAM OUTLINE (2 hours): 

• Introduction to dance in Judaism (10 minutes)
• Dance Party (1-2 hours)

Dance Party (5 minutes)

• Before the dancing begins, introduce the idea of dancing in Judaism. You can start with all the different aspects of dance or use 1 or 2 texts to introduce it.   
• These quotes and others can be put on the wall or on tables so that as people are hanging out and taking a break from dancing, they can read them. 

Dance Party (1-2 hours)

• Dance! Dance! Dance! 
• The goal is joy. Perhaps include Hava Nagila and do a big Hora. Put on some popular Israeli dance songs and teach a dance or two. Here’s a resource Welcome to Israeli Dances | Israeli Dances!
• Include popular Jewish music interspersed with other songs.