October 5, 2020
These days the traditional Jewish Wedding Dance the HORAH is performed at many other events such as Bar and Bat Mitzvahs as well as other secular events as it is a way to engage the crowd and bring everyone up out of the chairs and onto the dance floor. It is a great way to bring energy to the party and give people a chance to move, clap and join the fun without having to really know any dance steps or special movements. It starts when the bride and groom or central persons of the event are put in chairs in the center of the dance floor and then hoisted into the air for all to see.
My first suggestion is that you visit the location and make sure the ceiling is at least 15 feet high so no one will be hitting their heads on any ceiling or lighting fixtures. Second, my recommendation is that you request 2 chairs with arm rests and make sure the DJ, MC or other person leading the party is aware of their location next to the dance floor and does not allow a guest to drag out chairs from another area of the hall. This will make it much easier for the bride and groom and potentially parents (if they dare) to grab onto the chair as typically the four strong individuals hoisting the chairs are not of all the same height and strength so it can be a rather bumpy ride. Further, at some point the groom typically holds out a napkin for the bride to hold as well leaving only 1 hand free to keep from falling out of the chair and onto the floor below. Hopefully, the master of ceremonies is watching the entire process and can announce a caution should things get too dangerous or carried away.
If the ceiling is too low or if a family member is afraid of heights or simply does not wish to be lifted, you can still honor them by having them sit in the chair and everyone can dance around them hands raised or clapping.
The HORAH can be a wonderful and memorable way to start any gathering with people holding hands, moving in circular motion to the music and then rushing into the center at timed intervals to celebrate with the guests of honor. Hopefully, this suggestion will prevent anyone from injury and get the party started in a fun and memorable fashion.
Request 2 chairs with arm rests and make sure the DJ, MC or other person leading the party is aware of their location next to the dance floor and does not allow a guest to drag out chairs from another area of the hall.