Bar and bat mitzvahs are some of the most joyful events I get to play. I'm DJ Sam House, and from late 2008 through spring 2010 I was fortunate to be part of a long list of Southern California celebrations, usually with a great MC like Dennis Waller at my side. Here are some highlights, with first names only.

North Hollywood and the Valley

Brandon, Temple Beth Hillel (November 2008). The place to be that night was "Club Brandon," where the action was non-stop. The entertainment team included me, our MC, and dancers Ebony and Chad, who kept everyone entertained and the dance floor packed.

Kevin, Calabasas Country Club (May 2009). We did it all, from Russian singers to samba dancers, with our MC rocking the show as usual.

Alex, Calabasas Country Club (July 2009). Our MC and dancers Inetri and Jackie joined me, and the House Entertainment team kept everyone dancing. We received several wonderful compliments throughout the night.

USY dance, Valley Beth Shalom, Encino (January 2010). A United Synagogue Youth dance with kids visiting from as far away as Brazil. The dance floor was packed all night.

The South Bay

Steven, Point Vicente Interpretive Center (March 2009). Our MC had everyone out on the dance floor movin' and groovin'.

Robbie, Redondo Beach (April 2009). It's nights like this that make me wish I were 13 again, well, maybe just for a little bit. With world-renowned MC Dennis keeping the kids moving between games and dancing, everyone had a blast.

Leah, Ayres Hotel in Manhattan Beach (April 2009). One of the best bat mitzvahs ever, with our MC and backup dancers Jackie and Heather. Graham and Graham Photography made sure everything was captured.

Jake, Hermosa Beach (July 2009). It was a beautiful day for a party, held at a private home with MC Dennis keeping the kids entertained.

Westside, Westlake and beyond

Marguerite, Sofitel in Beverly Hills (October 2009). A complete success, with Marguerite and her friends joining in some sing-alongs.

Lauren, Westlake Yacht Club (March 2010). We kept everything bumping, and even Grandpa got out there and got busy.

Emily, Courtyard Marriott in Culver City (April 2010). Another amazing event with everybody getting wild.

Zach, Long Beach (May 2010). A cool kid who was "the man" at his bar mitzvah, and we even got to hear the drum maestro play with his band.

What makes a great bar or bat mitzvah party

Guests of every age. The best parties get kids, parents and grandparents on the dance floor.
An MC and dancers. A strong MC leads games and group dances so no one feels shy.
Your style. From a club theme to a sing-along, the best parties reflect the guest of honor.
A great photographer. Pro photographers capture what a DJ can't.

Mazel tov to all the families!