Nirkoda Le'Chayim: Israeli Dance with Aaron Alpert and Latishya Steele

- 4161 Alma St, Palo Alto, CA 94306

Introduction / Overview

Nirkoda Le'Chayim, which translates to "Let's Dance for Life," is a vibrant and inclusive Israeli dance session held in Palo Alto, CA. Led by the highly respected instructors Aaron Alpert and Latishya Steele, this weekly gathering has become a beloved fixture in the Bay Area's folk dance community. The sessions are built on a philosophy of joy, celebration, and connection, where participants are encouraged to explore the full, rich variety of the Israeli dance repertoire. What started as an outdoor, socially-distanced adaptation during the pandemic, Nirkoda Ba'Gan, has evolved into a thriving indoor community at Congregation Etz Chayim. The organizers are known for their dedication to fostering a safe and welcoming environment where everyone, regardless of age, background, or skill level, can feel at home. From well-known favorites to lesser-known gems, the playlist is carefully curated to offer something for every dancer. This commitment to inclusivity is a core tenet of the community, ensuring that no one is left out, as one reviewer so passionately put it. For those looking to connect with a unique cultural art form, find a fun way to stay active, or simply be a part of a kind and supportive group, Nirkoda Le'Chayim offers a wonderful opportunity right here in California.

Location and Accessibility

Nirkoda Le'Chayim is hosted at a location that prioritizes accessibility for all. The weekly sessions take place at 4161 Alma St, Palo Alto, CA 94306, USA. This venue offers a fully wheelchair accessible entrance, making it easy for individuals with mobility challenges to join the dance community. In addition to the accessible entrance, the location also provides a wheelchair accessible parking lot and a wheelchair accessible restroom, further ensuring a barrier-free experience. The amenities also include a gender-neutral restroom, which underscores the community's commitment to inclusivity and welcoming everyone. The central Bay Area location makes it a convenient meeting point for dancers coming from different parts of California. The combination of its easy-to-find address and its extensive accessibility features makes Nirkoda Le'Chayim a standout choice for those who value an environment that is truly open to all.

Services Offered

• Beginner's Class: A dedicated session from 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursdays, designed for new dancers to learn the fundamentals and warm-up dances.
• Intermediate/Advanced Class & Open Dancing: The main dance session from 8:00 PM to 11:30 PM, where dancers can enjoy a mix of well-known and less common dances.
• Circle and Couple Dance Instruction: A consistent part of the evening where Aaron and Latishya teach one circle and one couple dance, usually on a two-week rotation (teach new dance one week, review the next).
• Extensive Repertoire: The session is known for its wide variety of Israeli dances, with a playlist that progresses from easier, older dances to more advanced, newer ones as the night goes on.
• Special Events: The organizers occasionally hold "party" nights without formal teaching, and also direct and participate in special workshops and camps.
• Community Connection: More than just a dance class, the sessions foster a strong community where dancers can connect with one another in a joyful and celebratory atmosphere.
• Online Community: While the focus has returned to in-person sessions, the organizers are known for their dedication to the broader community, including making resources available for those who cannot attend in person.
• Flexible Payment: Nirkoda Le'Chayim accepts various payment methods, including cash, checks, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.
• Student Discounts: Full-time students up to age 25 receive a discounted admission price.
• Financial Accommodation: The organizers believe that financial limitations should not be an obstacle to dance and are willing to discuss special accommodations for those who cannot afford the admission fee.

Features / Highlights

• Experienced and Passionate Instructors: Aaron Alpert and Latishya Steele are highly regarded in the Israeli dance community for their extensive knowledge, warm personalities, and dedication to their craft. They have been active in the dance world for years, and are known for introducing new and little-known dances to their sessions.
• Inclusive and Welcoming Atmosphere: The community is praised by its members for its non-judgmental and supportive environment, where everyone is invited to dance, regardless of their skill level, age, or background.
• High-Quality Venue: The sessions are held in a space with a sprung wood floor, which is gentle on the knees, and a high-quality house audio system, enhancing the dancing experience.
• Accessibility for All: The availability of a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and restroom makes the sessions welcoming and practical for a diverse group of dancers.
• Catering to All Skill Levels: With a dedicated beginner's class and a dance program that progresses in difficulty throughout the evening, Nirkoda Le'Chayim caters to both newcomers and seasoned dancers.
• Community Focus: The sessions are not just about learning steps; they are about connecting with others, celebrating culture, and participating in a supportive community that prioritizes the well-being of its members.

Contact Information

For more information about the weekly dance sessions, special events, or other inquiries, you can reach out using the following contact details:

Address: 4161 Alma St, Palo Alto, CA 94306, USA

Phone: (818) 687-9717

What is worth choosing

Choosing Nirkoda Le'Chayim for your dance journey in California is a decision to embrace an authentic, high-quality, and deeply communal experience. This is not a typical dance class; it is a community where the joy of dancing is the primary focus, and the connection between people is just as important as the steps themselves. Aaron Alpert and Latishya Steele are a huge part of what makes this session so special. Their expertise, passion, and genuine care for their dancers are evident in every session, creating a truly motivating and fun environment. For those new to Israeli dance, the dedicated beginners' class is a perfect starting point, providing a gentle introduction to the steps and rhythms before joining the main session. For more experienced dancers, the open dancing portion offers a chance to enjoy a wide and varied repertoire, including both beloved classics and exciting new choreographies. The venue itself is a significant advantage, with its excellent dance floor and full accessibility, ensuring that everyone can participate comfortably. The community's ethos of inclusivity, as highlighted by a reviewer's plea for "perpetual Zoomers," shows a deep-seated commitment to making sure no one is left out, which is a rare and beautiful quality. For anyone in the Bay Area looking for a rewarding physical activity, a vibrant social scene, and a genuine connection to a beautiful cultural tradition, Nirkoda Le'Chayim stands out as a truly wonderful and worthwhile choice. It is a place to not only learn how to dance but to also find a sense of belonging and a community that dances for life, together.

Nirkoda Le'Chayim: Israeli Dance with Aaron Alpert and Latishya Steele

4161 Alma St, Palo Alto, CA 94306, USA