Dance Spreads Its Wings: Israeli Concert Dance 1920-2024

Israeli concert dance is a vibrant and diverse art form that has evolved dramatically over the past century. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the history and development of Israeli concert dance from its early beginnings in the 1920s to the present day. The book features detailed descriptions of key works, choreographers, and companies, as well as insights into the social and cultural context in which Israeli dance has developed.

The Early Years (1920-1948)

The early years of Israeli concert dance were marked by the influence of European dance pioneers such as Gertrud Kraus, Rudolf von Laban, and Mary Wigman. These pioneers brought their innovative approaches to movement and choreography to Palestine, where they helped to lay the foundation for a new Israeli dance aesthetic.

Dance Spreads Its Wings: Israeli Concert Dance 1920–2024

by Ruth Eshel

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22461 KB
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One of the most important figures in the early development of Israeli dance was choreographer and dancer Rina Nikova. Nikova was born in Russia in 1899 and studied with some of the most renowned dance teachers of her time. In 1926, she immigrated to Palestine and founded the Palestine Dance Academy. The academy was the first professional dance school in the country and played a major role in training the next generation of Israeli dancers.

Another important figure in the early days of Israeli dance was choreographer and dancer Yekutiel Gabay. Gabay was born in Yemen in 1904 and immigrated to Palestine in 1924. He was inspired by the traditional dances of his homeland and incorporated them into his own choreographic work. Gabay's dances were often characterized by their vibrant rhythms and expressive movements.

The Kibbutz Movement (1948-1967)

The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 marked a new era for Israeli concert dance. The kibbutz movement, which was a collective farming community, played a major role in the development of dance during this period. Kibbutzim often had their own dance groups, which performed for the community and for visitors.

One of the most famous kibbutz dance groups was the Inbal Dance Company. The company was founded in 1949 by choreographer and dancer Sara Levi-Tanai. The Inbal Dance Company specialized in performing traditional Israeli folk dances, as well as new works by Israeli choreographers.

Another important kibbutz dance group was the Kibbutz Dance Company. The company was founded in 1953 by choreographer and dancer Yehudit Arnon. The Kibbutz Dance Company was known for its innovative and experimental work, which often explored social and political themes.

The 1967 War and Beyond (1967-Present)

The 1967 Six-Day War had a profound impact on Israeli society, including the dance world. The war led to a renewed interest in Israeli identity and culture, which was reflected in the work of many Israeli choreographers.

One of the most important choreographers of this period was Ohad Naharin. Naharin was born in Israel in 1952 and studied at the Juilliard School in New York. In 1990, he became the artistic director of the Batsheva Dance Company, one of the leading contemporary dance companies in the world. Naharin's work is known for its physicality, its emotional intensity, and its exploration of the human condition.

Another important choreographer of this period is Sharon Eyal. Eyal was born in Israel in 1971 and studied at the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance. In 2005, she founded the L-E-V Dance Company, which has become one of the most successful Israeli dance companies in the world. Eyal's work is known for its athleticism, its visual beauty, and its exploration of the relationship between movement and emotion.

Israeli concert dance has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the 1920s. Today, it is a vibrant and diverse art form that is enjoyed by audiences around the world. This book has provided a comprehensive overview of the history and development of Israeli concert dance. It has also highlighted some of the key figures who have shaped the art form.

I hope that this book will inspire readers to learn more about Israeli concert dance. I also hope that it will encourage readers to attend performances by Israeli dance companies and to support the work of Israeli choreographers.

Dance Spreads Its Wings: Israeli Concert Dance 1920–2024

by Ruth Eshel

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22461 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	508 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE