This page is simply to let people know that The Destination has done its share of Bar/Batmitzvahs with
great success. The people that hire this band are shooting for the moon and usually end up with a successful lunar
landing: engaging the kids while entertaining the adults.
Parties like this (centered around a particular age group) can leave a large part of the group out of the loop. Dee
jays and, on the other side, Klezmer bands can leave a void in the excitement levels for the different ages. A band
as universally entertaining as The Destination is ahead of the game right from the start.
Addressing the obvious need for a certain amount of Klezmer material, the band knows enough horas to do the "lifting
of the chairs". If any more than this is desired (usually for the older contingent) Joe J actually plays this music
(on accordian) with a local guy, Dana Mandel, and they get a few jobs a year as The Klezmer Kings. He can use
this experience to throw a couple more into the full band's mix or simply get the Kings in for a set or two.
The big concern is "what do they have for the kids?" Limbo, hoola hoops (for a twist contest), musical chairs
(usually done with recorded music on a band break), ladies/mens choice dances (not always a hit but entertaining
nevertheless), bringing kids up to sing simple backup parts, a shoe dance, and, of course, The Electric Slide and
Macareena type dances (usually done on the band's other break, again, with recorded music) mixed in with song
dedications are the chief ingredients for a Destination Bar/Batmitzvah.
Don't forget that the kids like some time off the floor while the adults are dancing. This turnover of the dance
floor a few times during the party is the difference between a family gathering and a kid's party.
In conclusion, The Destination knows what Bar/Batmitzvahs are about. Joey J's magical ability to read a
crowd is still operative with the focus around 12 and 13 year olds. If you're looking for cookie cutter, hire the
DJ with the facilitators. If you want a party that stands out and isn't soon forgotten, hire The Destination
and the instigator, Joey J!
