Even as someone who has always loved to dance, exploring Israeli Folk Dance was a completely new and enriching experience. Growing up with ballet, modern dance, tap, and even dipping my toes into ballroom and line dancing, I never considered connecting with my heritage through movement until now. Dance fitness, primarily hip-hop, had become my go-to exercise, but committing to explore new Jewish experiences opened my eyes to the vibrant world of Israeli folk dance – a discovery that has truly resonated with my soul.
Inspired to delve into this cultural dance form, I ventured out to the Westside Jewish Community Center (JCC) to join a class led by the wonderful Orly Star. Despite the typical L.A. rush hour traffic and pouring rain, the excitement of trying something new propelled me forward. And it was well worth the journey. The weather didn’t deter anyone; in fact, an impressive group of 85 people of diverse ages and backgrounds filled the Westside JCC gym, all eager to “pray with our feet,” as Orly beautifully put it.
“Israeli dance was created to bring together the people of Israel from their different cultures. That sensation of coming together, of being in a community, was palpable in the Westside JCC gym that night.”
What is Israeli Folk Dance? A Blend of Culture and Movement
Israeli folk dance, or Rikudim (רִקוּדִים) in Hebrew, is more than just a series of steps; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven from the diverse cultural threads of the Jewish diaspora and the modern State of Israel. Born in the early 20th century, these dances were intentionally created to unify the people returning to their ancestral homeland from various corners of the world. Each brought their unique traditions, music, and movements, which fused together to form a new, collective Israeli identity expressed through dance.
Israeli dance is a dynamic and evolving art form. It incorporates elements from Yemenite, Balkan, and Eastern European folk traditions, alongside contemporary influences like hip-hop and modern dance. This fusion ensures its relevance and appeal across generations, keeping the spirit of Israeli culture alive and moving.
My First Steps into the World of Rikudim
Orly Star, a passionate instructor with 20 years of experience, began the evening with a beginner-friendly session. She introduced us to the ten basic steps that form the foundation of Israeli folk dance. Terms like “Yemenite steps,” “Cherkassiya,” “Cha-cha-cha,” and the “mayim” or grapevine step, might sound complex, but Orly broke them down with patience and clarity. While initially challenging, especially for a complete novice to this style, I found myself catching on and enjoying the process of learning these new movements.
Moving into the intermediate session, I found myself surrounded by experienced and welcoming dancers. The atmosphere was incredibly supportive; no one minded when I occasionally missed a step or bumped into them. Instead, smiles and encouragement filled the room.
As Orly played a mix of classic and contemporary Israeli tunes, we moved through various dances. Grapevines, box steps, and even hip-hop-inspired moves flowed together seamlessly. I was particularly fascinated by how Israeli folk dance incorporates modern dance elements, demonstrating its continuous evolution and appeal to younger generations.
Caption: A diverse group participates in an Israeli folk dance class, showcasing the communal aspect of the activity.
The Joy and Community of Israeli Folk Dance
What struck me most profoundly was the sheer joy and sense of community that permeated the room. It truly didn’t matter if I wasn’t perfectly executing every step. When I lost my way, I simply kept moving, and that was perfectly acceptable. The emphasis wasn’t on flawless technique but on participation, connection, and celebrating together.
As Orly explained, Israeli dance was intentionally created to unite people from diverse cultural backgrounds within Israel. This unifying spirit was palpable that night at the Westside JCC. People of all ages, from young adults to seniors, and from various walks of life, came together, communicating through the universal language of dance and enjoying each other’s company. It was more than just a dance class; it was an experience of shared heritage, joy, and community.
Benefits of Embracing Israeli Folk Dance
Beyond the sheer fun and cultural connection, engaging in Israeli folk dance offers a multitude of benefits:
- Physical Fitness: It’s a fantastic cardiovascular workout that improves coordination, balance, and stamina.
- Cultural Connection: It provides a tangible and active way to connect with Jewish culture and heritage.
- Community Building: Israeli folk dance fosters a strong sense of community and belonging.
- Mental Well-being: The combination of music, movement, and social interaction is a wonderful stress reliever and mood booster.
- Cognitive Benefits: Learning and remembering dance steps can enhance memory and cognitive function.
My journey into Israeli folk dance is just beginning, and I am excited to continue exploring this vibrant and meaningful tradition. If you’re looking for a joyful way to connect with culture, community, and get some exercise, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Israeli folk dance a try. You might just discover a new passion and a wonderful way to “pray with your feet.”
