Temple Israel holds Israeli Folk Dancing open sessions from 8:00-9:30 PM on most Thursday evenings throughout the year. All ages and levels of experience are welcome, whether you don’t know a single step, or have been dancing for years.  Typically we do easier dances and have some teaching in the first half of the evening, and do intermediate/advanced dancing during the latter half.  No partners are required, as the dances are circle and line dances.  Wear (or bring) dry, comfortable shoes.  Suggested donation $5 per session.

Just as the Israeli nation has welcomed Jews from all over the world to its shores, so too has Israeli folk dance evolved to include influences from cultures throughout the world.   Over the decades, Israeli choreographers have created, and continue to create, their own original folk dances.  Many dances were based on Eastern European dances such as the Hora.  Yemenite style dancing became popular, as well as Debka line dances borrowed from the Arab world.  Today you will see Hasidic, Persian, Latin, Indian, and many other dance styles incorporated into Israeli folk dance. 

Don’t worry if you’re not the most graceful dancer.   Folk dancing is about having fun, being part of a community, and feeling connected to Israeli music and culture.  The most important dance move is to have a smile on your face; don’t worry about what your feet are doing!

Sessions are led by Eric Pomerantz.  Contact ericpomer82@gmail.com for information or to be added to our email announcement list.