Overview

Nirkoda Le'Chayim ("let's dance for life") is an Israeli dance session organized and led by Aaron Alpert and Latishya Steele. We believe in exploring the full variety of the Israeli dance repertoire to connect our community in joy and celebration. We started as Nirkoda Ba'Gan, an outdoors, socially-distant adaptation for the COVID-19 pandemic and moved indoors in June 2021 to Etz Chayim (hence the name, Nirkoda Le'Chayim). Take a look at our playlists to see what a typical night is like.

Details

Schedule

We meet on Thursdays.

• 7:30-8:00pm, beginners class
• 8:00-11:30pm, intermediate/advanced class & open dancing
  • 8:30pm, we teach one circle and one couple dance

In general, the earlier part of the night has a higher proportion of easier-to-follow, older, and circle dances. As the evening progresses, our playlist gets more advanced, newer, and partners-heavy. If you're new to Israeli dance, come at 7:30 for the beginners class and warm-up dances.

We usually teach in a two-week cycle (teach brand new dances the first week, review the dances the second week). About once every 2 months we have a "party" without any teaching. See the list of dances taught. Requests are welcome and encouraged!

Notes on Special Dates

• April 17, 2025 — CANCELLED due to the lack of running water at Etz Chayim

Beginners

Welcome to the wonderful world of Israeli folk dancing! We are so happy to have you join us. Here's a handy guide for new dancers on how to make the most of the experience.

Entrance Procedure

Per Etz Chayim's safety policy, we are not allowed to leave the front door unlocked. Press the doorbell, which is a small, white, rectangular transmitter we will leave on a chair by the door. Please give us a minute or two (or three) to come let you in.

Price

We believe that finances should never be an obstacle to dance. If you are not able pay the admission price, please talk with Aaron or Latishya about a special accommodation.

We accept:

• Cash
• Checks made out to "Nirkoda"
• PayPal to @alpert8 or QR code below, please select "friends & family"
• Venmo to @Aaron-Alpert or QR code below, please turn off "goods & services"
• Zelle to alpert1988@gmail.com or QR code below
• Any credit card (add $1.00 for processing), online at nirkoda.com/pay

Location

We meet at Congregation Etz Chayim, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto, CA 94306 (map). Parking is free, easy, and plentiful.

COVID-19 Safety (last updated December 12, 2022)

We no longer have any COVID-19 restrictions. We urge dancers to follow CDC vaccination guidelines. Please be courteous to your fellow dancers by staying home if you are feeling sick.