Honoree Dance Performance Makes a Comeback

In the mid 90s mitzvahs were in a renaissance period (not exactly Italian architecturally speaking) seeking creative ways to do innovative things for more added excitement.  Lightning Shakes New York actually started as an interactive dancer company for events in 1991, getting hired out by other companies to connect the event to the guests.

In the mid 90s, since I was pursuing my musical talents as well, we began writing songs and creating dance choreography specifically for live events and parties.  This was at the forefront of a hot new trend then, which was doing choreography for mitzvah kids with our professional dancers. 

We would set up rehearsal schedules have myself or one of my dancers create some choreography to a song.  It was a blast for kids to come into the city and rehearse like a professional dance group would do or a top musical act would rehearse for a video.  Depending on the ability of the child the choreography would be easier or pretty elaborate.  The night of the party was a heightened experience for everyone.  As anyone who has ever performed knows it's a very big high.

Some of the most memorable parties we've done have had this performance element as part of the party.  It just took the honoree, the family and the guests to another level of thrill, enjoyment and relaxation.  The kids come running into the honoree after the performance with high fives and hugs and everyone WANTS to be on the floor.

Our last party with choreography was a few years back and it was a completely different scenario. There was only 1/2 hour during cocktails for the child to get the choreogaphy and be prepared.  This method is not recommended for anyone, as even my dancers need time to learn routines.  But this particular child held her own and carried it off to an explosion of cheers and applause.

Cut to 2010.  We have a new performance upcoming in May and our dancers are busy with the choreograpphy and preparing for a great day.  See the video below.  Everyone is very excited. So maybe the dance choreographed performance will be making a comeback to mitzvahs.  If you are interested in learning more please give me a call.  Here's to nailing that move!