Israeli / Hebrew Dances
Machol Dance Ministries
There are often several variations of the same dance, and frequently, several dances for the same song. Remember to be courteous when visiting other groups, as they may not use the same version you are familiar with.
Israeli Folk & Hebrew Dances
Click on a link to the left to find out more
about the steps involved in each dance.
Dance Notations & Abbreviations:
HH (Holding Hands), CW (Clock-Wise Direction),
CCW (Counter-Clock-Wise Direction), R (Right) L (Left),
2x (Two Times)
Adonai S'Fatai - "Open My Mouth Lord"
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
Intro count of 24
Part 1
L Mayim 15 w/Lift, R Mayim 15 w/Lift (1x)
Part 2A
R steps R, L behind R, R steps R, lean R, L heel pointing L,
Lifting hands L.
L steps L, R behind L, L steps L, lean L, R heel pointing R,
Lifting hands R.
R steps R, L heel pointing L, lifting hands L.
L steps L, R heel pointing R, lifting hands R, 3-pt-turn R.
Part 2B
L steps L, R behind L, L steps L, lean L, R heel pointing R,
Lifting hands R.
R steps R, L behind R, R steps R, lean R, L heel pointing L,
Lifting hands L.
L steps L, R heel pointing R, lifting hands R.
R steps R, L heel pointing L, lifting hands L, 3-pt-turn L.
(4x)
Part 3
Walking CCW with hands straight-out in front of you, RLRL
Extend R heel in front and lean back,
Extend R toe behind and lean forward
(4x - alternate with part 2)
Song Suggestions:
Adonai S'Fatai - Jonathan Settel
Al Sadenu - "Over Our Fields"
Part 1
Step R with R, Coupe R (LRL), Coupe L (RLR), Balance LR,
Cross L in front of R, R joins, Cross L in front of R, R joins.
Repeat All
Part 2
Into center of circle RLR-Brush, Into center RLR-Brush,
Coupe R (LRL), Coupe L (RLR), 3-pt-turn CW out of circle,
Coupe R (LRL), R Open Grapevine (6 Steps-RLRLRL)
Repeat ALL
Song Suggestions:
Al Sadenu - Hebrew
Ancient Words - Robin Mark
Depths of the Sea - Avner & Rachel Boskey
Yom Teruah - Steve McConnell
Alleluia
Part 1
Forward Step-Hop on R foot to L side,
Step-Hop on L foot by crossing in front of R foot,
Backward Step-Hop on R foot,
Step-Hop on L foot to L,
Yemenite R-Hop, Yemenite L-Hop,
L Mayim, L Tcherkessia, L Mayim, L Tcherkessia.
Part 2
4 CW Step-Hop turns to R,
4 CCW Step-Hop turns to L,
R Open-Mayim, R Yemenite, Close.
4 CCW Step-Hop turns to L,
4 CW Step-Hop turns to R,
L Open-Mayim, L Yemenite, Close.
Song Suggestions:
How I Praise You - Paul Wilbur
Medley # 2 - Billy Whitman
Yoducha Amin Elohim - Steve McConnell
Ani Ma'Amin - "I Believe"
This has become one of our favorite dances. We will frequently modify it by dropping Part B (due to the excessive hoping and jumping) making it more accessible to a larger group of participants.
Circle, Facing Center, arms bent at elbows, holding hands
Part A
Kibbutz step to R & L , 2 Jazz Squares, 2 Left Mayims,
1 Tcherkessia to center, 1 Yemenite Style Turn (Basketball Turn),
2 Left Mayims, 1 Tcherkessia to center
1 Yemenite Style Turn (Basketball Turn)
Part B
Jump on both feet, Hop onto R foot, Quick Steps - L behind, R to side, L in front (4 count sequence), Repeat
R steps R, L steps across front of R, balance back on R, L balances L (like a R coupe)
2 Quick Turns R in 4 steps total (1/2 turn per step) clap on 2nd & 4th step
Repeat all of B
Part C
Into center, open hands
Step fwd. R, touch L forward (L shoulder goes in),
Out 3 little steps LRL (cha cha cha type steps)
(Repeat)
1 Tcherkessia
1/ 2 turn on R shoulder to face out, rock back on R, balance on L
Repeat all C facing out of circle
(the 1/2 turn at end brings you back to the beginning of the dance)
Finish with Part A- Kibbutz step, 2 Jazz Squares
Song Suggestions:
Ani Ma Amin - Hebrew
Cup of Salvation - Avner and Rachel Boskey
You Who Fear the Lord - Jonathan Settel (Very Fast)
Bai Ya Mim - "In Those Days"
This dance is beautiful and a lot of fun. The "Brush Step" makes this one lovely to look at, yet simple enough for people to pick up without having a lot of instruction.
Part 1
Facing toward center of circle, Brush-step w/R foot (Arms in open Motion, 1 1/2 L Mayim (R behind L, R in-front-of L, R behind L)
(All 4x)
Part 2
Into center of circle, Skip R & Snap, Skip L & Snap,
Out of circle, R, L, R, L (Skip can be a step to simplify)
(All 2x)
Part 3
3-point-turn R and clap, 3-point-turn L and clap,
Into center of circle, Skip R & Snap, Skip L & Snap,
Out of circle, R, L, R, L (All 2x)
Song Suggestions:
Bai Ya Meem - Lamb
Blessed is Adonai - Steve MCConnell
Come Now is the Time to Worship
First Fruits - Steve McConnell
Hine Yeshua - Jonathan Settel
Hoshia Et Amecha - Barry and Batys Segal
Look At 'Em Go - Lamb
Mikamocha Adonai - Chuck King
Rumah Adonai - Jonathan Settel
Shir Moshe - Jonathan Settel
Sukkot Song - Steve McConnell
When You Rise Up - Lamb
With God We'll Gain the Victory - Lamb
Year of Jubilee - Lamb
Balada Lama'Yan - "Song to the Spring"
Part 1 HH (CCW), Rock forward on R, back on L, forward on R, L touches beside R,
Rock forward on L, back on R, forward on L, R touches beside L
Step forward on R, Touch L beside R, Snap R,
Step forward on L, Touch R beside L, Snap L,
2-pt-turn CW, Sway & Snap R then L,
2-pt-turn CW, Sway & Snap R then L,
R Open Mayim
Part 2 (Facing Center) Rock forward on R, back on L, forward on R, Brush L,
Rock forward on L, back on R, forward on L, Brush R,
Back R Yemenite, Tcherkessia into R back L drag, R back L drag.
Song Suggestions:
Balada Lama'Yan - Hebrew
Barchu Et Adonai - "Bless the Lord" - by Paul Wilbur
This dance is a wonderful worship dance.
Part 1 (Musical Interlude)
CCW, Extended Hassidic Hands
Walk R L R L, Sway R, Sway L, Sway Back, Sway Front (Repeat)
Part 2
Drop Hands, Open R, L Crosses Over, (R Hand Up, L Down – Hands Cross Over) (Repeat)
2-Point Turn R, Yemenite R. (R Hand Up, L Behind Back during turn)
Drop Hands, Open L, R Crosses Over, (L Hand Up, L Down – Hands Cross Over) (Repeat)
2-Point Turn L, Yemenite L. (L Hand Up, R Behind Back during turn)
Part 3
Hands Up in Praise
3-Point-Turn R (Up on toes), 3-Point-Turn L (Up on toes), Join Hands
L Mayim 3-Up, R Mayim 3-Up (Repeat)
Song Suggestions:
Blessed Are You - Paul Wilbur
Breathe on Me - choreographed by Curtis Loftin
Mikamocha (2x); Tsadik Katamar (2X)
Alternate Possibilities: Hanokdim (1st & 2nd Parts); Ma Na Vu (All)
Song Suggestions:
Breathe On Me - Jonathan Settel
Chofesh - "Freedom"
You'll love this one one you learn it.
Part 1 (Circle Dance - HH)
CCW…Walk R, L, Hora R; Walk L, R, Hora L
Turn ¼ - CCW turn - by way of L shoulder as you Balance R, Balance L
Facing & traveling slightly toward center, Cross R over L, Cross L over R
Step-Hop R, Rock back on L foot as you touch with R heel in front
Part 2 (Not HH)
(Toward center) Basketball turn - Walk R, L, R-pivot;
(Away from center) Basketball turn - Walk R, L, R-pivot
(Toward center) Hora R, Hora L (Hand follows foot; R hand up, L hand up);
4-pt CW Turn By way of R shoulder (ending CCW at dance starting position)
Song Suggestions:
Shout For Joy - Paul Wilbur
Walk In the Light - Ted Pearce
Purify Me - Clay Crosse
Clap Your Hands - Lamb
This is an "old" dance from the LAMB classic song, "Clap Your Hands".
Part 1
CW, L Mayim, Balance (4x)
Part 2
R Open Mayim, 3-pt-turn R (R L R), Coupe R ending with a Clap,
Coupe L ending with a Clap, Balance (R L R L) (2x)
Song Suggestions:
Clap Your Hands - Lamb
Come Let's Go Up to the Mountain - Paul Wilbur
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
This dance is a modified version of "Od Ye Shama"
CW
Hora step R L, 3-point turn CW, Step R, Toe point LRLR (Repeat)
Clap Sequence: (2x)
Toward center: RLR, hop on R while clapping,
Away from Center: LRL, hop on L while clapping.
Turn CW, L hand on hip, R hand in air,
Turn CCW, L hand on hip, R hand in air.
Mayim (4x)
SEQUENCE:
1. Hora/Turn/Step (2x), Clap Sequence (2x), Mayim (4x)
2. Hora/Turn/Step (2x), Clap Sequence (4x), Mayim (4x)
3. Hora/Turn/Step (2x), Clap Sequence (4x) Mayim (2x)
4. Praise Dance (3x), Mayim (4x)
5. Hora/Turn/Step (2x), Clap Sequence (4x), Mayim (3x), Hands Up
Song Suggestions:
Come Let's Go Up - Paul Wilbur
Debka DaLuna
This dance provides mainly quick footwork.
Part 1
HH, Facing Center, CCW, R steps R, L Behind R, R steps R,
L “touches” R, L steps L, R Brush-Hop (4x)
(Call “Right, Behind, Right, Touch, Left, Brush-Hop”)
Part 2
R step Forward toward Center, L Heel toward Center, Jump Backwards
on both feet, Kick R Forward, R-Hop-Hop backward, L touch,
R-Hop-Hop backward, L touch. (2x)
(Call “Right, Heel, Stoop, Kick, R-Hop-Touch, R-Hop-Touch”)
Song Suggestions:
Ancient Gates - Avner and Rachel Boskey
O Deliverer - Matthew Ward
Rumah Adonai - Jonathan Settel
Debka Kafrit - "Village Debka"
This dance is a fairly simple Jewish line dance.
Part 1
Intro count of 8, Open circle, CCW, HH (16-count),
L Stomp (1 2 3 4),
L step L, R toe closes, R step R, L toe closes,
Repeat 6 times - 12 counts,
Swing arms (large swing) in same direction of lead foot.
Chorus Part A Toward center of circle (16-count)
L step L & R closes, Heels Bounce Bounce, (L Bounce Bounce)
L step L & R closes, Heels Bounce Bounce, (L Bounce Bounce)
L step L & R closes, Heels Bounce Bounce, (L Bounce Bounce)
Lift R, Hop out of circle on L (2x), R down. (Hop Hop Down)
Chorus Part B Toward center of circle (16-count)
(1 movement) L steps L & R beside w/R heel up, R heel down,
(1 movement) L steps L & R beside w/R heel up, R heel down,
(1 movement) L steps L & R beside w/R heel up, R heel down,
Lift R, Hop out of circle on L (2x), R down. (Hop Hop Down)
Chorus Part C Toward center of circle (16-count)
L & R twist toward center w/R heel up, Twist back,
L & R twist toward center w/R heel up, Twist back,
L & R twist toward center w/R heel up, Twist back,
Lift R, Hop out of circle on L (2x), R down. (Hop Hop Down)
Song Suggestions:
Debka Kafrit - Hebrew
Hallelu Et Adonai - Barry & Batya Segal
Adonai Yimloch L'Olam V'Ed - Steve McConnell
Debka Mimouna
This dance is awesome because of the Debka Step and a somewhat challenging 180 degree spin. This one is better suited for the Intermediate to Advanced Dancer.
Part 1a HH, Facing center of circle, Moving CCW,
R steps R, L crosses R, R steps R, L crosses R, Balance R L,
Quick jump crossing L in front of R & R behind L, Stomp with R.
Part 1b
R steps R, L crosses R, R steps R, L crosses R, R Yemenite, Step with L to L.(Repeat 1a & 1b)
Part 2 Moving into center, Debka R L R L, stomp with R,
L back Yemenite (LRL), Stomp R twice,
Walk backwards from center RLRL, Stomp R,
L back Yemenite (LRL), Stomp R.
Part 3a Facing CCW, Not HH, Hands clasp chest level,
Hora R (RLR), Hora L (LRL),
L hand shoulder height & stationary, Swing R arm & Clap R hand against L,
Spin 1 full turn (180 Degree Spin) CCW on L foot (after the clap)
Part 3b Facing CCW
Hora R (RLR), Hora L (LRL),
L hand shoulder height & stationary, Swing R arm & Clap R hand against L,
Spin ¼ turn CCW to face CenterSong Suggestions:
Debka Mimouna
Dror Yikra - "He Will Proclaim Freedom"
I always enjoy finding dances that look different. This one includes a Brush Step and a Lung down to the R Knee. Intermediate to Advanced Dance.
Part 1
Open Circle, HH (If closed circle, face center)
R to R side, L behind R, R-Open Mayim,
R Yemenite (RLR),
L to L side, R behind L, L-Open Mayim,
L Yemenite (LRL),
Lightly Stomp R foot 2x.
Repeat ALL
Part 2
Dropping Hands (Facing Center of Circle)
Step Forward on R, Ho on R, Step Forward on L,
(Hands: "How" in American Sign Language)
Repeat
R Yemenite, L Yemenite,
R-Stomp-Brush Forward, Hop on L foot, R-Back-Yemenite,
Hop on R Foot, Lifting L,
Go down on R-Knee, with L-Knee bent forward,
Snap both hands LRLR side of L-Knee (Count 1234)
(Variation: Cross arms at writs and snap RLRL, beside of L-Knee)
Stand-up,
R Yemenite, L Yemenite,
(Hands: Out in front of you)
Walk CW Circle "in-place" while hands are raised and snapping (1234)
Repeat All of 2
Song Suggestions:
Dror Yikra - Hebrew
Erev Ba "Evening Comes"
Circle Dance – with a mixture of HH & not
Part 1
(Facing center) R coupe
(Flip to face Cw) Step L on L ft, then R, together R, Hold (Touch L toe @ R instep)
7 Grapevine steps in CCW direction (Beginning with the L ft),
Hold (Touch R toe @ L instep)
(Stationary) 3-pt turn R
Part 2
(Facing center) R coupe, L coupe, R coupe
(Flip to face CW) Step L on L ft, then R, together R, Hold (Touch L toe @ R instep)
7 Grapevine steps in CCW direction (Beginning with the L ft),
Hold (Touch R toe @ L instep)
(Stationary) 3-pt turn R
Part 3
(Facing center) R coupe, L coupe (@ this point weight is on L ft)
(Flip to face outside circle – HH)
Step R on R ft, Cross with L ft (in front),
Step R on R ft, Cross with L ft (in front),
Step R on R ft, Cross with L ft (in front),
Balance R, balance L (To change line of direction)
Part 4
(Traveling opposite line of direction)
Cross with R ft (in front of L), Step L on L ft,
Cross with R ft (in front of L), Step L on L ft,
Cross with R ft (in front of L), Step L on L ft,
(Release hands & flip to face center as you execute the next 2 balance steps)Balance R, Balance L
Song Suggestions:
Erev Ba
Give Thanks to the Lord (by Paul Wilbur)
Dance Version 1
Part 1
4 walking steps CCW R L R L, Touch R toe Front, Back, Front, Back.
Part 2
Facing center of circle, R foot steps R, R hand goes up,
L foot steps L, L hand goes up, 3-point-turn R w/both hands up.
Part 3
CCW small steps R L R Hop, CW small steps L R L Hop,
Hop R, Hop L, Step R L R.
Dance Version 2
Part 1
X X X X (Two rows, facing each other)
X X X X
Hands up, 3 R Slides, Step R L R In-place,
3 L Slides, Step R L R In-place.
Part 2
Lift R Knee and slap with both hands (hands doing figure 8),
Lift L Knee and slap with both hands,
Lift R Knee and slap with both hands,
Lift L Knee and slap with both hands. (Girls: Beside head, clap R L R L).
Part 3
Both hands up, “Do-se-do” CW while touching R hands
(Stepping 1,2,3…1,2,3…back home 1,2,3…1,2,3)
Song Suggestions:
Give Thanks to the Lord - Paul Wilbur
Good News (by Ted Pearce)
This dance is pretty intense because the entire dance is performed by hopping, skipping and turning. The Yemenite step makes the dance an Intermediate to Advanced Dance.
Part 1
No HH, Facing Center
R-Hop, L-Hop, Out-2-3-4 (RLRL)
HH, L-Hopping-Mayim (R-Hop, L-Hop, R-Hop, L-Hop)
(CCW) R L R-Hop, L R L-Hop,
Facing Center, No HH, Hands Lifted, R-Together-R, L-Together L
(2x)
Part 2
HH, R-Open Mayim, No HH, R-2-Pt-Hopping-Turn, R Yemenite, L Yemenite
(All 2x)
Turn: R-2-Pt-Hopping-Turn
Tag (1x)
No HH, Center, R-Hop, L-Hop, Out-2-3-4,
L-Hopping-Mayim (R-Hop, L-Hop, R-Hop, L-Hop)
Part 3
(CW) HH, L Mayim, Step R Kick L, Step L Kick R, L 7-Up Hop
(CCW) R Mayim, Step L Kick R, Step R Kick L, R 7-Up Hop
(All 2x) (Part 3 is done only 1 time during the dance)
Turn: R-2-Pt-Hopping-Turn
Dance Progression:
1, 1, 2, 2, Turn, Tag, 1, 1, 2, 2, Turn, 3, Turn, 1, 1, 1, 2, 2, Turn, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2Song Suggestions:
Good News - Ted Pearce
Mashiach Ben David - Lenny & Varda Harris
Zeh Hayom - Sue Samuels
Mayim Chaim - Zemer Levav
Simchat Chatanim - MJAA
Hallelu Et Adonai "Praise the Lord" by Ted Pearce
This dance is pretty simple - BUT it is also very intense because of the speed, skipping and hopping.
Part 1
Circle, CCW, No HH
R Open-Hopping Mayim (Skip R L, ½ Pivot over L Shoulder & Skip backward R L)
2-Pt-Turn (Arms Up) - End facing center
Sway R L
(All - 4x)
Part 2
Skip-Hop R L
Face Center, Right Slide (R-together-R) Skip-Hop L R
Face Out of Circle, Left Slide (L-together-L)
(All - 4x)
Part 3
Facing Center
Modified Praise Movement
(Toward Center, R Hop, L Hop - swing L arm as moving in)
(Out of Circle, R Hop, L Hop),
CCW, 2-Hopping 2-Pt-Turns
2 Box-Steps/Jazz Square toward Center (with Hands)
(All - 4x)
Dance Progression: 1, 2, 1, 2, 3, 1 End with 2
Song Suggestions:
Hallelu Et Adonai - Ted Pearce
Go Through the Gates - Barry & Batya Segal
On Your Walls Jerusalem - Barry & Batya Segal
Doorkeeper - Zemer Levav
Mayim Chaim - Zemer Levav
Etz Hamishalot - MJAA
Don't Let Me Fall Away - Zemer Levav
Sim Shalom Too - Steve McConnell (Very Slow)
Halleluya
Part 1 4 steps CCW (RLRL) with Snaps,
Face Center, Sway R Clap-Clap, Sway L Clap
4 steps CW (RLRL) with Snaps, Face Center, Sway R Clap-Clap, Sway L Clap.
Part 2 Into Center RLR-Hop, Out LRL-Hop, 2 L Mayims (Repeat part 2)
Hanokdim - "The Shepherds Dance"
This dance is a wonderful worship dance, but should be classified as Intermediate due to the Yemenite Step.
Part 1
Facing CW, R Yemenite, L-together-L; R Yemenite, L steps L, R joins,
L Yemenite, R-together-R, L Yemenite, R steps R, L joins
Part 2
Facing center, R steps R, L heel
(hands above shoulders and fingers snap on each heel)
L steps L, R heel, 3-point-turn R
(repeat 3X)
Part 3
(Arms wrapped to elbow during parts 3 and 4)
CCW - R steps R, L behind R, R to side, L heel
CW – L steps L, R behind L, L to side, R heel
CCW run 4 steps RLRL, right hora (RLR), left hora (LRL)
(repeat)
Part 4
Into center RLR hop, Backing out, LRL hop
CCW - R steps R, L behind R, R to side, L heel
CW – L steps L, R behind L, L to side, R heel
Song Suggestions:
Hanokdim - Hebrew Song
Adore - Jaci Velazquez
B'Tach B'Adonai - Chuck King
Blessed Is Adonai - Steve McConnell
Have Mercy Upon Me - Chuck King
He Shall Reign - Paul Wilbur
I Am Bending My Knee - Kirk Dearman
I Am Crucified - I Can Only Imagine - Mercy Me
Kaddish - Jonathan Settel
O God You Are My God - Chuck King
Sacrifice Lamb - Lamb
Shalom Jerusalem - Paul Wilbur
Sing Hallelujah - Lamb
Song of Moses - Paul Wilbur
Where Does My Help Come From - Paul Wilbur
Harmonica
I've often thought that this is the dance King David must have danced when the Ark of the Covenant was brought up to Jerusalem. The exuberance of this dance is awesome. The Coupe-Hope can be challenging for Beginners.
Part 1
CW, L Mayim, Skip-Hop R, Skip-Hop L. (4x)
Part 2
L Coupe-Hop, R Coupe-Hop, L Coupe-Hop,
CCW, Skip-Hop L, Skip-Hop R.
R Coupe-Hop, L Coupe-Hop, R Coupe-Hop,
CW, Skip-Hop R, Skip-Hop L.
Part 3
Facing Center, R Hora, Left Hora, CCW, Run RLRL (4x)
Song Suggestions:
Harmonica - Hebrew Song
Adonai Yimlach L'Olam - Steve McConnell
Ani Ma Amin - Jonathan Settel
Come Let Us Go Up - Paul Wilbur
First Fruits - Steve McConnell
Halalu Et Adonai - Barry and Batya Segal
Jesus Christ is Lord - Paul Wilbur
Look At 'Em Go - Lamb
MIkamocha Adonai - Chuck King
Sukkot Song - Steve McConnell
Tzion Tzion Tzion - Jonathan Settel
Zealous Over Zion - Ted Pearce
Hava Nagila - "Let Us Rejoice & Be Glad"
This simple Beginner's Dance is a traditional favorite.
Part 1 L Hora (for the Hava Nagila part of the song)
Part 2 Balance Steps (RLRLRL) (for the "u-ru..." middle part
Part 3 L Mayim (latter part of the song)
Song Suggestions:
Hava Nagila - Barry and Batya Segal
Hava Nagila - Marty Goetz
He Shall Reign (by Paul Wilbur)
This dance is even simple enough for children.
Part 1 Walking, Single Clap R, then L, then R, Double Clap L.
Part 2 Walking CCW, hands on shoulders.
The BEST dance to use for this song is actually ZEMER ATIK. It works well and is suitable for a Beginner Group.
Song Suggestions:
He Shall Reign - Paul Wilbur
Hear Now (by Israel's Hope)
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
Part 1
Tcherkessia, Yemenite R Hop, Yemenite L Hop, (repeat 3x)
Part 2
3 L Mayims, Mayim lift, 3 R Mayims, 1 Mayim lift, Balance, (repeat)
Song Suggestions:
Hear Now - Paul Wilbur
Hine Ma Tov - "Behold How Good"
There are probably more versions of this Israeli Folk Dance than most. Version 1 is the more traditional version. Version 3 is the first version of the dance that I learned and a real nice variation.
Hands
CCW, Left hand resting on your left shoulder (palm up), right hand resting on left shoulder of person in front of you (palm down). If you are the first or last person, free hand is on hip.
Version 1
Part 1 (This is the same for all 3 versions)
4 slow Debka steps (RLRL), 8 quick walking/running steps. (Repeat)
Part 2
Facing Center of Circle, HH
R Stomp, R Back Yemenite, L Stomp,
R Yemenite, L Yemenite
Version 2
Part 1
4 slow Debka steps (RLRL), 8 quick walking/running steps. (Repeat)
Part 2
Facing Center of Circle, HH
R Stomp, L Back Yemenite, R Stomp,
R Yemenite, L Yemenite
Version 3
Part 1
4 slow walking steps RLRL (bending knee with each step), 8 quick steps
(Repeat)
Part 2
Tcherkessia, Yemenite R Hop, Yemenite L Hop
(Repeat)
Song Suggestions:
Hine Ma Tov - Paul Wilbur
Hine Ma Tov - Barry & Batya Segal
Happy Song - Don Moen
Hineh Yeshua 1 - "Here is Yeshua" (by Jonathan Settel)
Part 1
CCW, HH
Walk RLRL, Rock Forward & Backward RLRL
Walk RLRL, Rock RLRL,
Walk RL, Drop Hands, Pivot CW & Walk Backwards CCW RL
3-Pt-Turn, Coupe R, Coupe L,
Balance RLR, Kick L & Hands go up.
Part 2 Reverse
CW, HH
Walk LRLR, Rock LRLR,
Walk LRLR, Rock LRLR,
Walk LR, Drop Hands, Pivot CCW & Walk Backwards CW LR,
3-Pt-Turn, Coupe L, Coupe R,
Balance LRL, Kick R & Hands go up.
Song Suggestions:
Hine Yeshua - Jonathan Settel
Adonai S'Fatai - Jonathan Settel
Hine Yeshua 2 - "Here is Yeshua"
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
Part 1
CCW, 2 L Mayims, Box-Step,
2 L Mayims, Yemenite R Hop, Yemenite L Hop
Part 2
Walk toward Center of Circle (RLRL) slowly raising hands,
Back out of Circle (RLRL), lowering hands & turning on last
2 steps so you’re facing away from the center of circle.
Part 3
With hands lifted, Sway RLRL,
Bent CW Spiral Revolutions (1 ½ turns) so you’re facing center of circle again. “World” movement with both hands.
Song Suggestions:
Hine Yeshua - Jonathan Settel
Holy Holy Holy (by Paul Wilbur)
Part 1
HH, Walking R L R L into center of circle,
(Hands going up, looking up as you enter the circle)
Back out L R L R (Hands still up),
CW facing center,
R crosses L, L in place, R crosses L, L Brush into L step,
R drags beside L, Step L, R Brush/Lunge into center,
(R knee up, L knee down, looking up)
Release hands, R hand up, then L hand up,
Rise and back out of circle R L R L
Part 2
3-pt-turn R, (hands up), Sway R L R,
3-pt-turn L, Sway L R L,
3-pt-turn R, Sway R L R,
3-pt-turn L, Sway L R L, “World” hands.
Ending…
“World” hands 2x, walk to center (holding hands up)
Lean out, in, out, in, Look up
Song Suggestions:
Holy Holy Holy - Paul Wilbur
Hora - Traditional
L foot steps L; R foot crosses behind L; L foot steps L
R foot kicks L; L foot kicks R (“Step behind, step kick, step kick”)
Song Suggestions:
Blessed Be the Name - Dennis Jernigan
Come Let Us Go Up - Paul Wilbur
We Are Strong In the Lord - Dennis Jernigan
You Are the One I Love - Don Moen
Hora Agadati - "My Story"
The intricate foot work make this challenging for some, but will surely be a favorite for all who learn it.
Part 1
HH, CCW, Run R L R L
4 jumping twists in place and to L first (feet together)
(Repeat 3x)
Part 2
Facing center of circle, Step forward on R
Place L heel in front , hands swing up in front,
Then do a Hora step (L R L) in place
(Repeat)
Part 3
With feet together, Twist L, Twist R, Hop on L
Coupe L, (pause), L Hora (L R L)
(Repeat)
Song Suggestions:
Hora Agadati - Hebrew
Bless the Lord - Paul Wilbur
Enter His Gates - Lamb
Hallelu Et Adonai - Barry and Batya Segal
Hallelujah B'Yeshua - Billy Whitman
Kumi Ori - Barry and Batya Segal
On Your Walls Jerusalem - Chuck King
Shouts of Joy - Paul Wilbur
Tzion Tzion Tzion - Jonathan Settel
When You Rise Up - Lamb
With a Shout of Glory - Paul Wilbur
Hora Chadera "The Chadera Hora"
This is a great Jewish line dance. Parts 1 and 2 are extremely simple. Part 3 can be challenging for Beginners due to the Kibbutz step.
Part 1
Open Circle, CCW, Hasidic Hands
Walk RLRL, Touch R Heel Forward & Hold, Rock-back on R,
Walk RLRL, Touch R Heel Forward & Hold, Rock-back on R,
Walk RLRL, Touch R Heel Forward & Hold, Rock-back on R,
Walk RLRL, Touch R Heel Forward & Hold, Rock-back on R.
(Head goes down when you Rock-back on R)
Part 2
Facing Center, Drop HH, Arms bent at elbow, Hands up
Into Center Walk RLRL,
Touch R Heel in Front, Arms go up, Touch R Heel in Front, Arms go up,
Backing Out of Center Walk RLRL
Touch R Heel in Front, Arms go up, Touch R Heel in Front, Arms go up.
(Repeat All 4x)
Part 3
Facing Center, Arms on shoulders
(Kibbutz Step R) Step R w/ R, L crosses behind R, R steps R, Stomp L,
(Kibbutz Step L) Step L w L, R crosses behind L, L steps L, Stomp R,
Sway R & L, Drop hands, 3-Pt-Turn to R.
Facing Center, Arms on shoulders
Step L w L, R crosses behind L, L steps L, Stomp R,
Step R w R, L crosses behind R, R steps R, Stomp L,
Sway L & R, Drop hands, 3-Pt-Turn to L.
Song Suggestions:
Hora Chadera - Hebrew Song
With God We'll Gain the Victory - Lamb
Sh'ma Yisreal - Barry & Batya Segal
We Delight in Your Shabbat - Barry & Batya Segal
Hora Chedva
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
You really should record the dances that you choreograph. Over time you'll forget them if you don't do them frequently. The VHS or DVD makes a good resource for you to look back at later.
Part 1
CCW, 4 walking steps, Tcherkessia (2x), Box step
Part 2
Facing center, moving CW, two L Mayims, Box step
two left mayims, double yemenite-hop (RL)
Part 3
Walking into center, RLRL, (raising hands), Backing out, RL, pivot to face outside circle (4 counts to back out), hands still raised, sway RLRL,
Stoop down, lowering both hands to left side at knee level, Swoop-turn
1 ½ times till facing center, stand and raise hands in "world hands" position.
Song Suggestions:
Ashrei Ha'Am - Steve McConnell
Blessed is Adonai - Steve McConnell
God Is Here - Steve McConnell
Hallelujah B'Yeshua - Billy Whitman
Hineni - Philip Stanley Klein
Jesus Christ Is Lord - Paul Wilbur
Let God Arise - Paul Wilbur
On Your Walls - Chuck King
Refuge and Strength - Ted Pearce
Say to the Daughter of Zion - Paul Wilbur
Shir Moshe - Jonathan Settel
Sukkot Song - Steve McConnell
Hora Kendall - "The Kendall Hora"
Mary Kendall (Mrs. Roy Kendall) taught us this one when they were in the US. She couldn't remember the actual name of the dance, so we dubbed it "The Kendall Hora".
Part 1
Facing center, HH, hopping Tcherkessia (Tcherkessia with a hop on each step), Yemenite R hop, Yemenite L hop, repeat all
Part 2
Circle moves in CCW direction, not HH but hands raised, Hopping 3-pt turn CW in the R line of direction. At conclusion of 3-pt turn, sway R and clap high R. Hop back on L, sway L, clap high L. repeat Part 2
Part 3
2 L mayims, walk CCW in place 8 steps, clapping shoulder high each step
Song Suggestions:
Ephriam & Judah - Lenny & Varda Harris
Havenu Shalom Aleichem (Medley 2) - Billy Whitman
Time to Favor Zion - Lamb
Hora Medura "Campfire Hora"
This is a wonderful Beginner's Dance that even the Intermediate and Advanced Dancer will enjoy.
Part 1
Facing Center; 4 R Slide, CCW,
HH, Into Center R L R, Hop on R, Out L R L, Hop on L
(Repeat)
Part 2
HH, CW, L Mayim,
Bowing head & leaning over Running R L R L,
L Mayim,
Facing center, hands come up, Touch R Heel in front 2x
(Repeat)
Song Suggestions:
Hora Medura - Traditonal
Mayim Chaim - Zemer Levav
Hora Nirkoda " Hora, Let's Dance"
This was one of the first "Beginner" Dances that we learned. 20+ years later, it's still one of our favorites.
Part 1
CW, 2 L Mayims, Into Center, R-Hop, Left Hop, Back RLRL. (2x)
Part 2
CCW, 2 R Side-Leaps, 4-pt-turn R (CW)
Lean/Twist R & Clap, Lean/Twist L & Clap,
March In Place RLRL, (Clap 4 levels, low->high)
Song Suggestions:
Hora Nirkoda - Hebrew Song
Echad - Philip Klein
God Is Here - Steve McConnell
Hallelu Hu - Chuck King
It Is Good - Paul Wilbur
Let God Arise - Paul Wilbur
Never Gonna Stop - Tommy Walker
O Deliverer - Matthew Ward
Set Time Has Come - Chuck King
Shabechi Yerushalayim - Barry and Batya Segal
Shiviti Adonai - Barry and Batya Segal
Yom Shekulo Shabbat - Steve McConnell
Zealous Over Zion - Ted Pearce
Hora Or 1 - "Dance Of Light"
Part 1
CCW, Hands down at side, Run R L R L,
Facing center, Leap twice.
(Arms go out when you leap and clap when legs come together)
(Repeat 3 times)
Part 2
Hands on hips, 3-pt-turn R and Hop, 3-pt-turn L and Hop,
Into center, R-hop, L-hop, raising hands high, Back out R L R L.
(Repeat)
Part 3
Facing center, hands on hips,
Sway-Step R, bring L beside R, Sway-Step R, Hop on R,
Sway-Step L, bring R beside L, Sway-Step L, Hop on L,
Sway-Step R Hop, Sway-Step L Hop.
(Repeat)
Song Suggestions:
Hora Or - Hebrew Song
* Sim Shalom Too - Steve McConnell
Year of Jubilee - Lamb
Hora Or 2 - "Dance Of Light"
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
This modified version of the dance Hora Or is a fun dance for everyone. It's simple enough that children can master it, but worshipful enough that you never get tired of doing it.
Part 1
CCW, Hands down at side, Walk R L R L,
Hands go up & down (next 4 counts) in “Praise” while you continue Walking R L R L.
(4x)
Part 2
Hands behind back, 3-pt-turn R and Hop, 3-pt-turn L and Hop,
Into center, R-hop, L-hop, raising hands high, Back out R L R L.
(2x)
Part 3
2 Arm-rotations R, 2 Arm-rotations L
1 Arm-rotation R, 1 Arm- rotation L,
Walk in small “personal” circle - 4 counts.
(2x)
Song Suggestions:
Dance Jerusalem - Jamie E Schwartz
* Giant Killers - Dennis Jernigan
He Is Yahweh - Vineyard
Hoshia Et Amecha - Barry and Batya Segal (modified)
How I Praise You - Paul Wilbur
I Love the Lord - Lamb
Never Gonna Stop - T. Walker
Refuge and Strength - Ted Pearce
* Say It Loud - Dennis Jernigan
Shiviti Adonai - Barry and Batya Segal
Sound the Shofar - Jamie E Schwartz
* Till the Walls Fall Down - Dennis Jernigan
* We Delight in Your Shabbat - Steve McConnell
Yoducha Amin Elohim - Steve McConnell
* You Are My Salvation - Lamb
Hora Or 3 - "Dance Of Light"
Part 1
CCW, HH, Walk R L R L Hop-Skotch, Hop-Skotch,
("R L R L Jump-Hop, Jump-Hop")
(4x)
Part 2
Sway-Step R, bring L beside R, Sway-Step R, Hop on R,
("1 & 2 and Jump-Hop R")
Sway-Step L, bring R beside L, Sway-Step L, Hop on L,
("Back & 2 and Jump-Hop L")
Sway-Step R Hop ("Jump-Hop R")
Sway-Step L Hop ("Jump-Hop L")
3-pt-turn R ("Turn around")
Part 3
Into center, R L Jump-Hop R, Out L R Jump-Hop L,
Jump-Hop R, Jump Hop L, 3-pt-turn R.
Song Suggestions:
Hora Or - Hebrew Song
* Sim Shalom Too - Steve McConnell
Year of Jubilee - Lamb
Hora Yamit
Part 1 CCW, facing Center of circle,
R steps R then hop on R & lifting L, L touches back down in place,
R steps R then hop on R & lifting L, L foot moves to R Mayim,
Coupe RE, Coupe L, Sway-Sway (same as Weave-Weave)
(Called: Hop, Hop, back, Hop, Hop, Mayim 2 3 4, Coupe R, Coupe L, Weave-Weave)
Part 2 (Feet together) Squat, R Kicks/Brush R going into 6 Grapevine steps
(Total of 8 steps) Repeat 3x.
Part 3 (Every step is a Step-Hop, 4 sets of 8 counts. Clap on 1st & 3rd count.)
1st Set: R-Hop & L-Hop into center of circle. Backing out of circle, R-Hop, L-Hop.
2nd Set: R-Hop into center, turn CW 180, L-Hop backwards (toward center),
R-Hop backwards, L-Hop backwards.
3rd Set: R-Hop & L-Hop toward outside of circle, Back into circle, R-Hop, L-Hop.
4th Set: R-Hop toward outside of circle, turn CW 180, L-Hop backwards (toward
outside of circle), R-Hop backwards, L-Hop backwards.
I Am Bending My Knee (by Kirk Deerman)
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
This dance is very simple, but also very worshipful. The words to the song by Kirk Deerman is absolutely awesome.
Talit draped over extended arms, 3 steps forward
Swirl talit CCW over head (3x)
3rd time, lower talit to cover head and shoulders
Bobbing (3x) (like praying at the Western Wall)
Raise hands, on the word "Prayer" lower to under chin as if praying
On the word "Praise" lift hands to sky (as if exploding fireworks)
Lift draped talit R, lower
Lift draped talit L, lower
Lift draped talit Front and Center, hold
Drop to R knee (talit still raised)
Drop to L knee, lowering talit.
4 count pause, then move to circle for chorus
Chorus
Holding extended talit in shoulder-high hands,
CCW, Walk RLR Close, bend knee
Walk RLRL, Walk RLR Close, bend knee
Walk RLRL, Walk RLR Close, bend knee
Walk RLRL
Walk RLR Close, bend knee
Lift talit R and lower, lift talit L and lower,
Lift talit front center and hold
6 count music interlude, turn left
Second chorus
Repeat 1st chorus, walking CW
Ending
Lift talit R,L, Center, drop to R knee, lower talit, embrace it.
Song Suggestions:
I Am Bending My Knee - Kirk Deerman
I Belong to Jesus
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
Verse
Facing Center of Circle,
Tcherkessia, Yemenite R Hop, Yemenite L Hop.
(Repeat)
Tcherkessia,
Tcherkessia, Yemenite R Hop, Yemenite L Hop
(Repeat)
Chorus
Immediately into Mayim, Balance (5x)
Bridge
Into center of circle,
R Skip-Hop, LSkip-Hop, back 2-3-4
R Skip-Hop, LSkip-Hop, back 2-3-4
Tcherkessia, Yemenite R Hop, Yemenite L Hop
(Repeat)
Song Suggestions:
I Belong to Jesus - Dennis Jernigan
I Will Talk to My Brothers
(A couples dance)
This is our favorite Couple's Dance. Partners continually change during the dance. If you don't have enough men, a few ladies can fill in for the men.
Part 1
HH, CCW, Male on L & Female on R,
Walking R L R L (hands going up), Back R L R L ( hands going down)
Part 2
Into center of circle,
Walking R L R L (hands go up), Back R L R L (hands going down).
Part 3
Dropping hands (Male stands clapping)
Female into center of circle,
Walking R L R L, (clapping, hands low to high level)
Back R L R L, (clapping, hands high to low level).
Part 4
Male into center of circle, (Female stands clapping)
Walking R L R L, (R fist goes up on 4th count and yell “Hey”)
Back R L R L
(In coming out of the circle, Male changes partner, moves to the female in front of him).
Song Suggestions:
I Will Talk to My Brothers - Lamb
Look At 'Em Go - Lamb
Year of Jubilee - Lamb
Im Hu Pal Nu - "if We Fall Down"
This is another Traditional Israeli Folk Dance favorite. It's simple, but
always enjoyable. It's an awesome worhip dance.
R crosses L placing weight on R and lifting L foot up
(like the Tcherkessia step but with emphasis on jump & lift)
Bring R back and place R heel on floor with toe pointing up.
Run R L R L CCW.
(Repeat)
Stomp R, Pause. Walk into circle R L R L, raising hands.
Stomp R, Pause.
(R toe facing R and perpendicular to L foot).
Step backwards R L R L crossing as you step backwards.
Straight backwards R L R L.
(Repeat 2 previous sections)
Song Suggestions:
Ashrei Ha'am - Steve McConnell
Come Let Us Go Up - Paul Wilbur
Day of the Lord - Paul Wilbur
Esa Einai - Barry and Batya Segal
Everybody Get Up - Dennis Jernigan
I Will Celebrate - Dennis Jernigan
Im Hu Pal Nu - Hebrew Song
Now Is the Time - Paul Wilbur
On Your Walls Jerusalem - Barry and Batya Segal
Set Time Has Come - Chuck King
We Delight in Your Shabbat - Steve McConnell
Yom Shekulo Shabbat - Steve McConnell
Kadosh - "Holy" (by Paul Wilbur)
We actually perform this dance around Shabbat candles. The first time we performed this dance, the congregation was on their knees and in tears.
Part 1
Tcherkazia into center of circle, bring hands over eyes (prayerfully)
3-point-turn R, Tcherkazia, Mayim L (All 2x)
Part 2
Tcherkazia, Coupe L, Mayim R, 3-point-turn R, Coupe R (All 2x)
Part 3
Tcherkazia, Mayim L, Touch L toe to ground,
CCW Step R, Drag L, Step R (Hands lifted toward heavens)
(All 2x)
Song Suggestions:
Kadosh - Paul Wilbur
Klezmer
This one is lots of fun - can be pretty fast.
Part 1
HH (palms together, CCW)
4 side steps (R to the side and L behind)
Go into center of circle, R L R, Hop on R; Back L R L, Hop on L
CW do two Mayims, Coupe L, Coupe R, Stomp R
(Repeat)
Part 2
Cross hands behind back, Walk CCW R L R L
R heel forward, then R toe behind
(hands go up, then back behind back)
Moving away from center of circle, do a R side step
(R to side, L behind R, R to side, Tap L heel left)
Moving toward center of circle, do a L slide step
(L to side, R behind L, L to side, Tap R heel right)
(Repeat)
Song Suggestions:
Adonai Yimloch L'Olam - Steve McConnell
Hallalujah - Jonathan Settel
Hine Yeshua - Jonathan Settel
Klezmer - Hebrew Song
Mikamocha Adonai - Chuck King
Now Is the Time - Paul Wilbur
Set Time Has Come - Chuck King
Kol Dodi - "Voice of the Bridegroom"
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
This was the first performance we did with men. There were 15 men who agreed to participate in the dance - I promised them
Men’s part
Walking up aisles toward front, 16 slower steps (RLRLRLRL…)
Lift up Talit on arms, lower,
Lift up Talit on arms, lower, Bring toward self.
Swing Talit over left shoulder, Put over head.
Bobbing 5x, Move to circle
4 L Mayim w/7up Hop,
3 R Mayim,
CW Star 8 slow steps.
(Star: R hands to center, holding Talit open/dangling in front)
CCW Star 8 slow steps.
Talit draped on R shoulder, Arms joined,
4 L Mayim w/7-Up-Lift, 4 R Mayim,
Lift talit Center & Lower (2x),
Pull talit to self and kiss tzitzits, Bow head.
Ladies' part
Walking up aisles toward front, 16 slower steps (RLRLRLRL…)
(Carrying Tabrets)
Mikamocha (Repeat)
4 Right Slides, 2 Left Mayims, (Repeat)
Mikamocha (Repeat)
4 Right Slides, 2 Left Mayims, (Repeat)
Mikamocha (Repeat)
Pause, Facing Front, Lift Hands (L higher), Bow
Song Suggestions:
Kol Dodi - Chuck King
Kuriya Yefi Fiya - "Beautiful Town"
Circle, Facing Center, HH
Part 1
Step R Back Tcherkessia lifting L, L Down, R touch Forward,
Step R on R lifting L, L Down, R touch Forward,
R crosses “deep” in front of L, L returns,
R crosses “deep” in front of L, L returns,
R crosses “deep” in front of L, L returns,
Turn CCW (RL) facing away from circle center.
Part 2 (Mirror of 1)
Step L Back Tcherkessia lifting R, R Down, L touch Forward,
Step L on L lifting R, R Down, L touch Forward,
L crosses “deep” in front of R, R returns,
L crosses “deep” in front of R, R returns,
L crosses “deep” in front of R, R returns,
Turn CW (LR) facing toward circle center.
Part 3
R hops R, L toe touches deep behind R,
L brushes clockwise 270 degrees around R in Right Direction,
Step L drag R, step L drag R (CCW around circle),
Step L drag R, step L drag R,
Step L drag R, step L drag R,
Step L drag R, step L drag R.
LaKabalat Shabbat - "Welcoming the Bride"
Part 1
CCW, HH
R to side, L behind, R-Open Mayim,
R Back Yemenite (RLR), L Back Yemenite (LRL)
(Raise hands to shoulder level on last step of Yemenites)
Step R to side, pivot 1/4 turn CCW as you put L behind<
R-together R. (Left hand on L hip, R hand up),
2-Pt-Turn CCW (LR) to face center,
L Back Yemenite, hands held forward, palms down,
Repeat ALL
R steps R, L joins, both hands meet, snap fingers in front,
R steps R, L joins, both hands meet, snap fingers in front.
Part 2
4-Step-Turn CW (RLRL), R hand on R Hip, L hand up (head level)
R Back Yemenite, L Back Yemenite, Hands out to front, Palms down,
Repeat
R steps R, L joins, Both hands meet, snap fingers in front.
Song Suggestions:
LaKabalat Shabbat - Hebrew
El Elyon - Paul WIlbur
Lord God of Abraham - Paul Wilbur
Torah is Life - Lenny & Varda Harris
Va'Ani Ashir - Jonathan & Cindy Bernd
Latter Days (by Barry & Batya Segal)
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
This was a wonderful performance piece that we did for Sukkot and speaks of all the Nations coming up to Jerusalem for Sukkot during the reign of Messiah. Dancers donned costumes and flags from countries around the globe. It's a beautiful dance.
1. R Slides
2. Miserlu ( "Step, Touch, Behind and Turn, Mayim Lift, Mayim Lift")
3. Into Center (4-count), Out from Center (8-count)
2. Miserlu
3. In & Out
4. 4 L Mayim with 7-Up Lift, 4 R Mayim with 7-Up Lift (Repeat)
3. In & Out
5. R Yemehnite, Pivot, Step-Together-Step
Song Suggestions:
Latter Days - Barry and Batya Segal
Let Us Adore (by Paul Wilbur)
Very Worshipful
(Let us a-DORE) Step with L in front of R, R Sweeps to the L,
Step R, Slide L beside R, Step R, Lift L Behind,
(The EVER living God)
(Moving CCW) L back down and Grapevine (11 total steps), pause
(and render PRAISE) R Sweeps to the L,
Step R, Slide L beside R, Step R, Lift L Behind ,
(unto Him)
(Moving CCW) L back down and Grapevine (9 total steps), pause
(Who spread out the HEAVens
Stepping Sideways into center of circle, being led by R shoulder, Hands up in U, Step R, Slide L beside R, (repeat 2 x)
(and established the EARTH)
Stepping backwards out of circle, L R L R
(and Whose GLORY, is revealed in the Heavens above)
3-pt-turn R, coupe R, Balance R L R
3-pt-turn L, coupe L, Balance L R L
(and Whose GREATNESS, is manifest)
3-pt-turn R, coupe R, Balance R L R
3-pt-turn L, coupe L, Balance L R L
(throughout all the earth)
Hands crossing lower front then going up.
(He is our God)
Stepping into center of circle, R L R, as hands go up
(There is none else)
Lean backward, with hands up
Song Suggestions:
Sing Hallelujah/Let Us Adore - Paul Wilbur
Lord is My Strength, The (by Dennis Jernigan)
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
L Hora (10x), Balance (L R L)
8 R Side-Steps,
Into center of circle (walking) R L R , Hop on Right,
Out of center of circle (waling) L R L, Hop on Left.
L Mayim, Balance.
8 R Side-Steps,
Into center of circle (walking) R L R , Hop on Right,
Out of center of circle (waling) L R L, Hop on Left.
L Mayim, Balance, L Mayim, Balance, L Mayim (Pause).
Song Suggestions:
Hallelujah - Jonathan Settel
Jesus Christ Is Lord - Paul Wilbur
The Lord Is My Strength - Dennis Jernigan
Ma Navu - "How Lovely"
One of our favorite and most frequently used dances.
Part 1
R points in front, R points to right side,
R steps back, L steps back, R steps forward
Rock back with weight going back on L
Rock forward with weight going onto R
Step L, R in place (stepping lightly on toes), Heels down
Part 2 (Reverse of # 1)
L points in front, L points to left side
L steps back, R steps back, L steps forward
Rock back with wieght going back on R
Rock forward with weight going onto L
Step R, L in place (stepping lightly on toes), Heels down
Part 3
Right yemenite, pivot on ball of R to right side, Step L-together-L
(4x)
Song Suggestions:
Baruch Atah Adonai - Jonathan Settel
* Come Let Us Bow Down - Dennis Jernigan
* Days of Elijah - Paul Wilbur
* Glory to the Lord - Don Moen
Hal'li Nafshi - Chuck King
Hodu L'Adonai Ke'Tov - Barry and Batya Segal
* How I Praise You - Paul Wilbur
Isaiah 44 - Ted Pearce
Kindle the Flame - Chuck King
Ma Na Vu - Barry and Batya Segal
O God You Are My God - Chuck King
Praise Adonai - Paul Wilbur
Take Me There - Dennis Jernigan
* Vayikar Sh'mo - Steve McConnell
Whoever Offers Praise - Kathy Shooster
Yahweh - Paul Wilbur
Yom Shekulo Shabbat - Steve McConnell
Master of All Things (by Jonathan Settel)
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
Part 1
L Mayim 15 w/Lift, R Mayim 15 w/Lift (1x) Balance R L R L – Stomp
Balance (8x)
Part 2
CCW – No Hands
Walking Tcherkesia (R L R L Tcherkesia) (3x)
Yemenite R Hop, Yemenite L Hop, Box-Step, Balance (R L R L)
Part 3
Facing center of circle
Hoping Tcherkesia - In R R L L (clap Hands on 3rd count entering)
Hoping Tcherkesia - Out R R L L
Hoping Tcherkesia - In R R L L (turning 180 degrees, backing into circle)
Hoping Tcherkesia - Facing Out R R L L (clap hands on 3rd count)
Hoping Tcherkesia - Backwards toward Center R R L L
Hoping Tcherkesia - Facing Out R R L L (turning 180 degrees, backing out of circle)
Song Suggestions:
Master of All Things - Jonathan Settel
Mayim / Balance / Skip-Hop
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
This is a great dance because of its simplicity. We frequently use it when we're at Conferences or places where others may not know our dance. It's easy to catch on to.
Part 1
L Mayim (1234), Balance (RLRL), Mayim (1 2 3 4), Balance (RLRL) ...
Part 2
Moving toward the center of the circle,
Skip R (12), Skip L (34), Back out of Circle (R L R L)
(Repeat all of Part 2)
Song Suggestions:
Blessed Be the Name - Dennis Jernigan
Blessed is Adonai - Steve McConnell
* Chai Ha'Shem - Steve McConnell
Everybody Get Up - Dennis Jernigan
* Hallelu Hu - Chuck King
* Hineni - Philip Klein
Mikamocha Adonai - Chuck King
* Shir Moshe - Jonathan Settel
Walls Will Come Down - Paul Wilbur
Mayim, Mayim - "Water Water"
A Traditional dance favorite that speaks of the "Water" that was drawn by the Priests at the Pool of Siloam during Sukkot each year.
CCW direction, 4 L mayims
4 steps into center of circle (RLRL) (hands slowly lifting)
4 steps out of circle (RLRL) (Clapping on 1st step out)
4 stomps CW, (“Hey, hey, hey, hey”)
Facing center of circle again, While hopping on L foot,
R toe alternately taps LR LR LR LR
While hopping on R foot,
L toe alternately taps RL RL RL RL
VERY quickly go back to beginning of dance
Song Suggestions:
Mayim, Mayim - Barry and Batya Segal
Mikamocha - "Who Is Like Thee"
This is our favorite slow dance. It's very worshipful and we frequently combine it with Tsadik Katimar.
Tcherkessia to center of circle
(In on R, Out on L-R-L)
Mayim L, Coupe L, 3-point-turn R (with hands raised), Coupe R.
The entire dance is done without holding hands.
Song Suggestions:
* Arise and Have Mercy - Jonathan Settel
Arise O Lord - Paul Wilbur
B'Tach B'Adonai - Steve McConnell
Dwelling Places - Don Moen
Fairest Lord Jesus - 4Him
Here I Am to Worship
* I Give You My Heart - Hillsong
* If I Forget - Chuck King
Just One Shabbat - Jonathan Settel
Ki T'Hilati Atah - Steve McConnell
* Love You So Much - Hillsong
Mercy Seat - Don Moen
* Mikamocha - Paul Wilbur
NaChaMu Ami - Steve McConnell
Power of Your Love - Matthew Ward
Sacrifice Lamb - Lamb
Testify to Love - Tommy Walker
Thank You - Katinas
* Vayikra Sh'mo - Steve McConnell
Miserlu
I looked this dance up on the Internet about 10 years ago and found six different versions of the dance - including this one.
Facing center of circle, Step R w/R, L touches to center of circle,
Swing L foot behind R foot into R Mayim,
As you complete Mayim swing R foot CCW,
Follow through with L Mayim,
Lift L foot at the end of Mayim,
R Mayim, Lift R foot at the end of Mayim.
Call: "Step, Touch, Behind and Turn, Mayim Lift, Mayim Lift"
Song Suggestions:
He Is My Defense - Marty Goetz
Kumi Ori - Barry and Batya Segal
Whoever Offers Praise - Kathy Shooster
Nevel Mizahav - "Golden Harp"
Part 1
Circle dance; CCW
Step R Touch L, Step L Touch R, Tcherkessia (Repeat)
(Step R, touch L toe to arch of R foot, Step L, Touch R toe to arch of L foot,
Step forward R, transfer weight back to L foot,
Step backward on R, transfer weight back to L foot)
Part 2
Balance R, Balance L, R cross L, L steps L,
2-Pt-Turn R (180 Degrees over R shoulder) facing out
2-Pt-Turn R (180 Degrees over R shoulder) facing center
Toward Center Step R Touch L (Snap), Step L Touch R (Snap)
Backing away from center, Step R Drag L, Step R Drag L.
(Hands can appear to be “playing a harp” as you back out)
Niguna Shel Yosi - "Yossi's Melody"
Simple Dance
Part 1
Facing toward center of circle, HH
R Hora Step (R L R), L Hora (L R L)
Walk into center (R L R L) (Who-o-o-O-P getting louder)
Part 2
R Hora Step (R L R), L Hora (L R L)
Back out of center (R L R L) (Who-o-o-O-P getting softer)
Part 3
CCW, Step-Sway on R (Leaning R) Single Clap R,
Step-Sway on L (Leaning L), Single Clap L.
Hassidic Hands
(R hand extended in front, L hand on L shoulder), Walking R L R L.
(Repeat 3 x)
Song Suggestions:
Niguna Shel Yossi - Hebrew Song
Enter His Gates - Lamb
I Will Celebrate 2- Vineyard
Kineti - Ted Pearce
Look At 'Em Go - Lamb
Say to the Daughter of Zion - Paul Wilbur
Sim Shalom Too - Steve McConnell
Some May Trust in Chariots - Vineyard
O Give Thanks (by Paul Wilbur)
This is our favorite 3/4 timing Israeli dance.
Part 1
Step R, Coupe R, Balance 2 3
3-pt-turn CCW into Mayim
R L R into circle, L R L out of circle,
3-pt-turn CW, Back 2 3
REPEAT
Part 2
Into center R L R with hands up, Out of center L R L with hands down
Modified 3-pt-turn CW, ending facing outward,
Backing 2 3 into center of circle, Sway R L R L with arms up
Out from center R L R with hands up
Backing into center L R L with hands down,
Modified 3-pt-turn CW, ending facing inward,
Backing 2 3 out of center of circle, Sway R L R L with arms up
Song Suggestions:
Avi Ad Malkenu (Heart for Israel)
Be Unto Your Name
Glory and Honor - Philip Klein
Highways to Zion - Chuck King
Hine Lo YaNum - Barry and Batya Segal
O Give Thanks - Paul Wulbur
Song for Zion - Jonathan Settel
O Jah
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
4-Count Intro, Facing toward center of cirlcle, Not HH
Part 1
7 Tcherkesias to center, World hands on “Arise”,
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
Part 2
3 Tcherkesias to center, World hands on “Arise”,
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
Part 3
Two L Mayims with Box-Step, Two L Mayims with Yemenite R & L.
Part 4
3 Tcherkesias to center, World hands on “Arise”,
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
Part 5
Two L Mayims with Box-Step, Two L Mayims with Yemenite R & L.
Part 6
6 Tcherkesias to center, World hands on “Arise”,
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
Part 7
Two L Mayims with Box-Step, Two L Mayims with Yemenite R & L.
Part 8
Tcherkesias to center, World hands on “Arise”,
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
1 Tcherkesiah, Yemenite R & L, World hands on “Arise”.
Song Suggestions:
O Jah - Paul Wilbur
Od Lo Ahavati Dai - "I Haven't Loved Enough"
This one is really simple, very fast, and lots of fun. It's become a favorite.
Part 1
2 L Mayim, 2 Tcherkessias
(Repeat)Part 2
Into Center, Walk R L R (Hop on R & Clap),
Back Out L R L (Hop on L & Clap), 2 R Slides, R 3-pt-turn
(Repeat All)
Song Suggestions:
You Are My Salvation - Lamb
No Weapon Formed Against You - Lamb
Od Ye Shama - "A Voice Shall Be Heard"
The words to the song "Od Ye Shama" speak of the "...voice of the Bridegroom, and the voice of the Bride"
Part 1
CW, Hands Up, R Hora, L Hora, 3-pt-turn, 4 skipping steps.
(Repeat)
Part 2
Into circle, step RLR, (hop on 3rd step),
(Hands up in praise clap; L leg kicks back),
Out of circle, step LRL, (hop on 3rd step),
(Hands up in praise clap; R leg kicks back),
3-pt-turn CW, R arm up, 3-pt-turn CCW, L arm up.
(Repeat)
Song Suggestions:
Ashrei Ha'am - Steve McConnell
Blessed I s Adonai - Steve McConnnell
Come Let's Go Up to the Mountain - Paul Wilbur
Hine Yeshua - Jonathan Settel
Latter Days - Barry and Batry Segal
Let God Arise - Paul Wilbur
Nobody Can Take My Life - Dennis Jernigan
Od Ye Shama - Hebrew Song
Shir Moshe - Jonathan Settel
Sukkot Song - Steve McConnell
Tzion Tzion Tzion - Jonathan Settel
You Are My Salvation - Lamb
Oseh Shalom - "He Makes Peace"
Version 1
Verse
HH, R Yemenite, L Yemenite, CCW, walk R L R L,
R Yemenite, L Yemenite,R steps R, L joins, L steps L, R joins.
Chorus
4 L Mayims ending with 7-Up Hop, 4 R Mayims ending with 7-Up Hop,
R Side-step (R-together-R), lifting hands,
L Side-step (L-together-L), lifging hands, Walking R L R L.
(2x)
Version 2
4 Mayim Weaves,
Step in with Snap (twice), 4 steps out
Step in with Snap (twice), 4 steps out
3 point turn, Clap (right), 3 point turn, Clap (left)
Step in with Snap (twice), 4 steps out
(2x)
Song Suggestions:
Oseh Shalom - Jonathan Settel
Praise Movement
The "Praise Movement" is a series of Hoping Tcherkesias.
Part 1
Facing toward center of circle
Hoping Tcherkesia - In R R L L
(R arm rotates from back to front, Clap Hands on 3rd count entering)
Hoping Tcherkesia - Out R R L L
(L arm goes upward & over L shoulder)
Part 2
Hoping Tcherkesia - In R R (Turn 180 degrees, backing into circle)
Hoping Tcherkesia Backwards L L
Hoping Tcherkesia Backwards R R - ( R arm rotates backward)
Hoping Tcherkesia Backwards L L - (L arm rotates backward)
Part 3
Hoping Tcherkesia - Facing Out R R L
(R arm rotates from back to front, clap Hands on 3rd count exiting)
Hoping Tcherkesia - Backwards toward Center R R L L
(L arm goes upward & over L shoulder)
Part 4 (Same as Part 2)
Hoping Tcherkesia - Out R R (turn 180 degrees, backing out of circle)
Hoping Tcherkesia Backwards L L
Hoping Tcherkesia Backwards - R R ( R arm rotates backward)
Hoping Tcherkesia Backwards - L L (L arm rotates backward)
Resting Place, A (by Paul Wilbur)
This is another worship dance to a great song by Paul Wilbur.
Part 1
2 L Mayims, 3-pt-turn R, Coupe R, Hold.
2 R Mayims, 3-pt-turn L, Coupe L, Hold.
Part 2
Walk CCW, RLRL, R Yemenite facing center of circle,
Sway L-R-Together, Hold
Part 3
Into center, R-together-R-Lift,
(Step Center on R, Drag L beside R, Step on R, Lift L)
Out L-together R-Out L-together R
(Step out/back with L, Drag R, Back L, Drag R)
Coupe L, Hold, Coupe R, Hold, Coupe Center, Hold.
Song Suggestions:
A Resting Place - Paul Wilbur
It Is Well With My Soul - 4Him
Saviour Like a Shepherd - 4Him
Romemu - "Exalt"
This one is usually best suited for the Intermediate to Advanced Dancer.
Part 1
Walk RL, Cha-Cha R, Cha-Cha L,
Jump on both feet, Hop-Hop on both feet, R Heel in front,
Pause, Clap,
Cha-Cha R, Cha-Cha L, Rock 1-2 (RL)
Repeat
Part 2
Facing Center of Circle,
Hands out in front,
R heel to front, R heel to R, R heel to front, R heel to R, (1234)
Cha-Cha R, Pivot CW, 8 L Grapevine Steps, R touches beside L.
Repeat
Song Suggestions:
Romemu - Craig Taubman
Roni Bat Zion - "Daughter of Zion"
This one is usually best suited for the Intermediate to Advanced Dancer. It's fast with a lot of skips, hops, and turns.
Part 1
R hop, L hop, 4 running steps (R, L, R, L)
R hop, L hop, 2 running steps, ½ tcherkessia (R,L), Three-point turn R
Coupe R, Coupe L, Coupe R, Coupe L
(Coupe R, Coupe L, 3-pt-turn R, Coupte R)
Verse
Facing Center, R brush while hopping on L, R steps back, L steps back,
R Skip-hop toward center, L Skip-hop toward center,
R Yemenite hop, L Yemenite hop.
R Leap to R side, L closes, (L hand crossing over head).
L steps to L side, R closes to L, (hands clapping over head).
R Leap to R side, L closes, (L hand crossing over head).
L steps to L side, R closes to L, (hands clapping over head).
L Mayim Balance (during musical interlude)
Variations for Simplicity:
1. (R Brush, 6 L Grapevine steps)
2. (Walking CW 4 steps (R,L,R,L), Tcherkessia.)
Song Suggestions:
All I Used to Be - Dennis Jernigan
Hallelu Hu - Chuck King
Hineni - Philip Klein
O Praise the Lord - Avner and Rachel Boskey
Roni Roni - Paul Wilbur
Stand Up For Jesus - Dennis Jernigan
You Are My Salvation - Lamb
Shalom Aleichem - "Peace to You"
This one is very simple.
Part 1
Holding hands, CCW, walk RLRL,
Sway RLRL with hands raised, palms touching
(3x)
Part 2
3-pt-turn to R, clap to the R
3-pt-turn to L, clap to the L
RLR into circle, clap high, LRL out of circle, clap low
Repeat
Song Suggestions:
Shalom Aleichem - Hebrew Song
Shebelet Basadah - "Ear of Grain in the Field"
This dance is Very High Impact Aerobically, but can be slowed down.
Part 1
CCW, Facing Center, 4 Slide-Hops R, Pivot over R Shoulder, 4 Slide-Hops L (same line of Direction around circle), Pivot over L Shoulder, 4 Slide-Hops R (same line of Direction), Pivot over R Shoulder, 4 Slide-Hops L (same line of Direction)
Part 2
CCW, R Skip, L Skip, Pivot (so you’re skipping Backwards same Direction), Backwards R Skip, Backwards L Skip (same line of Direction), Pivot, R Skip, L Skip, Pivot (so you’re skipping Backwards same Direction, Backwards R Skip, L Skip (same line of Direction)
Part 3
Into center, Skip R L R L
Out of center, Skip R L R L
Song Suggestions:
Bless the Lord - Billy Whitman
Blessed Is Adonai - Steve McConnell (normal to fast)
Go Alenu - Steve McConnell (Walk, but Good)
Honor, Glory and Blessing - Steve McConnell
Kumi Ori - Barry and Batya Segal (slower)
Shabbat M'Nu Cha - Steve McConnell (walk)
Shabechi Yerushalayim - Barry and Batya Segal
Sos Asis - Barry and Batya Segal (modified; Mod Fast)
Yoducha Amin Elohim - Steve McConnell
Shehechianu - "You Keep Us Alive"
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
It's always fun to pull together a group of dances that you know during one song.
1. Miserlu (2x)
2. 2nd Part Hora Agadati (2X)
3. 2nd Part Hora Or (3-pt-turn) (2x)
4. 3rd Part Hora Or (Circle Arms) (2x)
5. 1st Part Hora Or (Walking 2-3-4)
Sheleg Al Iri - "Snow On My City"
Part 1
CCW, Walking R L, Pivot, Walk Backwards R L R L,
Balance R L, Yemenite R, Lift R & Hold
Part 2
(Into center), Step R, Drag L, Step R, Lift L Behind,
Step Forward on L, Lift R Behind, R Back Down
Part 3
(Out of Center), Pivot,
L Backwards, R Crosses over L, L Beside R,
90 Degree Turn CW (R L), 4-Pt-Turn CW.
(CALL: Side-Cross-Side-Pivot- Hold, Turn 2 3 Close)
Song Suggestions:
Psalms of Praise - Billy Whitman
I Will Tell - Jonathan & Cindy Bernd
Shir HaShirim - "The Song of Songs"
This one is usually best suited for the Intermediate to Advanced Dancer, because of the Debka Step,
Part 1
Circle, Not HH
2 L Mayims (stomp w/R foot on 1st step),
Into center, Hop on R while pivoting CW to face out, Hop on L
R Yemenite, L Yemenite,
Going out of circle, R Debka (Snap), L Debka (Snap),
R Yemenite, L Yemenite while turning to face center of circle.
(Repeat All of 1)Part 2
CCW, R steps R, L crosses R (Snap), R Yemenite,
CW, L steps L, R crpsses L (Snap), L Yemenite,
Basketball Turn (Bb) in & out (CCW),
Facing center of circle, R Yemenite, L Yemenite.
Part 3
CCW, R Debka, L steps L, R Yemenite,
CW, L Debka, R steps R, L Yemenite,
Basketball Turn (Bb) in & out (CCW),
Facing center of circle, R Yemenite, L Yemenite
Song Suggestions:
Shir Ha Shirim - Traditonal
You Who Fear the Lord - Avner & Rachel Boskey
Shiri Li Kinneret - "Sing to Me Sea of Galilee"
This one is usually best suited for the Intermediate to Advanced Dancer because of Part 2.
Part 1
CCW; step R; Touch L toe in front, then behind; step forward on L.
Repeat
R Yemenite to face center of circle; Touch L toe behind; Step forward on L into center; Step forward with R;
Step backward with R; close L beside R.
Repeat ALL
Part 2
Facing center, Step R (with R foot), L steps behind R, R steps R.
L steps forward, Rock on L, Rock back on R, Rock forward on L.
R brush, L crosses over R, R brush.
R Yemenite, L steps backward L, L steps forward, R steps forward.
Repeat ALL
Song Suggestions:
* Brethren My Hearts Desire - Lamb
* Every Move I Make
Everybody Get Up - Dennis Jernigan
He Reigns - Newsboys
Lay Your Hands on Me - Lamb
* Look at 'Em Go - Lamb
Never Gonna Stop - Tommy Walker
* Shakles - Mary Mary
Shiri Li Kineret - Hebrew Song
* Shlach Or Cha - Hebrew Song
* Till the Walls Fall Down - Dennis Jernigan
Sing and Dance (by Jonathan Settel)
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
This is a great song and the dance really "fits" the song. It's quick with a lot of movement.
Part 1
Facing center, hands behind back. Jump ¼ turn left.
Part 2
CW, Walking Hora (R-L-R, L-R-L) (8 sets),
Walking Tcherkesia (R-L-R-L Tcherkesia) (Hands go up)
Yemenite R Hop, Yemenite L Hop.
Part 3
½ turn Left, repeat # 2 in CCW direction.
Part 4
Hora Nirkoda - 1st Part
CW, 2 L Mayim, Skip-Hop In-Out (Repeat)
Part 5
Tsadik Katimar - 2nd Part
R-Open Mayim, 3-pt-turn, Coupe R & L, Balance 1-2-3-4, Stomp
Part 6
Repeat 1- 5
Part 7
Instrumental Part - Praise Movement
Part 8
Repeat # 4 and # 5.
Part 9
Ma Navu – 1st ½ of 1st Part
R toe touches to Front, Side, Back;
Rock forward on R, back on S, forward on R, back on both,
On toes, down as music ends.
Song Suggestions:
Sing and Dance - Jonathan Settel
Sing Hallelujah
Part 1
Facing center, looking up,
Come Let us SING for joy to the Lord,
“Singing” hands,
Let us SHOUT aloud to the Rock of our Salvation,
“Shouting” hands,
Let us come before Him with thanksgiving,
Step into center of circle, R L, with hands up,
And extol Him with music and with song.
Step out of circle, and take hands with others.
Part 2
CCW, Walking R L, Tcherkesia (8x), Sing Halle, Hallelujah…
Part 3
HH, Hands up & looking up, Hands down & looking down
Come, Let us bow down in worship,
Kneel on R knee, hands up, lean back,
Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker,
Hands down and pushed behind,
For He is our God and we belong to Him,
Rise and Hands up,
We are His people, the flock under His care.
Part 4 Fast
CCW, Run 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8, clapping low to high,
To center, Run 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, clapping low to high,
Facing CCW, 4-R slides out of circle, snapping fingers,
Looking up, 4 CW turns.
Part 5 - Coda
Multiple turns and Hand up at End
Song Suggestions:
Sing Hallelujah - Paul Wilbur
Sisu V'Simchu - "Rejoice & Be Glad"
This dance is lots of fun and is suitable for the Beginning dancer.
Part 1 HH (Facing Center),
Hora-Step forward (RLR), Hora-Step backward (LRL),
(Hands up going in, Hands down going out)
2 R Scissors-Steps (same as R-Mayim, but crossing only in front), (Hands up)
Hora-Step to R (Both arms go up to R), Hora-Step L (Both arms go up to L),
Hora-Step to R (Both arms go up to R), Hora-Step L (Both arms go up to L).
Part 2 3-Step into center of circle with Hop (R L R Hop on R), clap
Back out of circle (L R L Hop of L), clap,
2 R-Open Mayims (Modigication: 1 R-Open Mayim, 3-Pt-Turn CW)
(Repeat)
Song Suggestions:
Adonai - Paul Wilbur
O Praise the Lord - Avner & Rachel Boskey
Hoshia Et Amecha - Barry & Batya Segal
Sulam Ya'akov - "Jacob's Ladder"
This dance is lots of fun and is suitable for the Beginning dancer.
Part 1
HH, Facing Center,
Step R-together-R, L steps forward, R steps forward,
Step L-together-L, R steps backward, L steps backward.
(Repeat)
Part 2 (Same as Miserlu)
R steps to R, L points in front of R then brushes around behind R,
Step R with R, L crosses in front of R & pivot on L,
L Mayim lift, R Mayim lift.
(Repeat)
(Do the dance twice, Double time the 3rd + times.)
Part 2 Variation
R steps to R, L points in front of R
L Back Yemenite
L Mayim lift, R Mayim lift.
(Repeat)Song Suggestions:
Sulam Yaakov - Traditional
Come Let Us Go Up to Zion - Barry & Batya Segal
Tsadik Katamar - "The Righteous Man"
This dance is a Traditional Israeli Folk Dance favorite and is suitable for the Beginning dancer.
Part 1
CCW, 4 walking (R L R L)
Face center of circle and do 4 Balance steps (R L R L)
(Repeat)
Part 2
R Mayim (starting with R to side and L crossing over)
3-pt-turn R (R L R), Coupe R, Coupe L, Balance (R L R L)
(Variation of second part)
L Mayim, Modified 3-pt-turn CCW (still going left))
Coupe L, Coupe R, Balance (R L R L)
Song Suggestions:
* Adonai Yimloch L'Olam - Steve McConnell
Ashrei Ha'am - Steve McConnell
Hoshia Et Amecha - Barry and Batya Segal
More Love More Power -
Somebody Big - Dennis Jernigan
Tsadik Katamar - Hebrew Song
Tsur Mishelo Achalnu - "Rock From Which We Have Eaten"
Part 1
HH, CCW
Walk R L R L,
Touch R toe in place,
Step R to R side, step L in place,
Touch R toe beside L.
(Repeat 3 times)
Part 2
Facing center, Step R to R side,
L crosses behind R, (Raise hands to shoulder level),
Raise R leg bending R knee, Step forward on R, L join,
Hands down, slight pause.
R crosses behind L, (Raise hands to shoulder level),
Raise L leg bending L knee, Step forward on L, R join,
Hands cross in front and snap on last count.
Song Suggestions:
Sacrifice Lamb - Lamb
We Delight (by Steve McConnell)
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
This is another dance that combines sections from several other Israeli Folk Dances.
Part 1
Verse - L Harmonica, Chorus - Im Hoop Pal Nu (Stomp-In part)
Part 2
Verse - L Hora, Chorus - Im Hoop Pal Nu (Stomp-In part)
Part 3
Verse - R Hora Nirkoda, Chorus - Im Hoop Pal Nu (Stomp-In part)
Part 4
Verse - L Bai Ya Meem, Chorus - Im Hoop Pal Nu (Stomp-In part)
Part 5
Verse - L Od Ye Shama, Chorus - Im Hoop Pal Nu (Stomp-In part)
Part 6
Verse - R Hora Agadatti, Chorus - Im Hoop Pal Nu (Stomp-In part)
Part 7
Verse - Im Hoop Pal Nu, Chorus - Im Hoop Pal Nu (Stomp-In part)
Song Suggestions:
We Delight - Steve McConnell
Worthy is the Lamb / Crown Him
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
1. Hanokdim part 1
2. Hora Chadera part 1
3. Hanokdim part 1
4. Into center RLR Lift, Out LRL Hold,
R behind R Heel, L behind L Heel,
Into center RLR Lift, Out LRL Hold
R behind R Heel, L behind L Heel, World Hands.
5. Hanokdim part 1
6. Hora Chadera part 1
7. Hanokdim part 1
8. Into center RLR Lift, Out LRL Hold,
R behind R Heel, L behind L Heel,
Into center RLR Lift, Out LRL Hold
R behind R Heel, L behind L Heel,
R behind R Heel, L behind L Heel,
R behind R Heel, L behind L Heel, World Hands.
9. Interpretive:
Bring wrists together forming crown, lifting (Crown Him),
Bow (Lamb upon the throne),
Hands cupped outward around mouth, raising to sky (Hark),
Hands to Heart, Two thumps at heart, lift hands (Awake my soul),
Drop hands, bow head (to Him who died for me),
Bring wrists together forming crown, lifting , (Hail Him...)
World Hands (All eternity)
10. Hanokdim part 1
11. Repeat # 8
12. Repeat #4
Song Suggestions:
Worthy is the Lamb / Crown Him
Yedid Nefesh - "Friend of the Soul"
Part 1
Circle Dance, HH, CCW, Intro count of 24
Traveling CCW, Hora/Waltz forward (RLR),
Step and pivot CCW on L and step backward RL,
Hora/Waltz step RL backwards, Step and pivot CW on R,
Hora/Waltz step LRL forward.
(Repeat all of 1)
Part 2
a. Facing center of circle, Hora/Waltz step RLR toward center,
Lifting hands as you move in,
b. Hora/Waltz LRL backward from center, lowering hands,
c. Step forward & pivot CCW on R, step backwards LR,
Lift hands above head and arms will cross,
d. Hora/Waltz backward LRL, with your back to the center of circle
e. Hora/Waltz forward RLR (facing away from center of circle),
f. Hora/Waltz LRL backwards,
g. Step and pivot CW on R, step backwards LR,
h. Hora Step LRL backwards
Part 3
CCW, Take 2 Hora/Waltz steps, RLR, LRL, HH, arms to sides,
Drop hand and make a 3-pt-turn (RLR) CW, arms to sides,
HH, Hora/Waltz LRL in line-of-direction.
(Repeat all of 3)
Part 4
(Repeat all of 2)
Part 5
Facing Center, HH, R Yemenite, L Yemenite,
Single R step toward center of circle, lifting L behind & hold,
Hora/ Waltz backward RLR, R Yemenite, L Yemenite,
Hora/Waltz toward center RLR, Hora Waltz backward LRL
(Repeat all of 2 & 4)
Song Suggestions:
Yedid Nefesh - Jonathan Settel
You Are Holy (by Hillsong)
Choreographed by Curtis Loftin
Part 1
2 Tcherkessias, 2 left Mayims, (repeat all)
Part 2
1 Tcherkessia, 1 left Mayim, Coupe left,
3 point turn right, coupe right, (repeat all)
Song Suggestions: (candles)
You Are Holy - Hillsong
Zemer Atik - "Ancient Melody"
Part 1
CCW, 4 walking steps (RLRL)
Lean R clapping twice, Lean L clapping once
(4x)
Part 2
Face into circle, Step RL (Snapping fingers R then L)
(“Step-snap, step-snap”)
Back out of circle RLRL, bowing with hands
(4x)
Song Suggestions:
Zemer Atik - Hebrew Song
