PRESERVING AND PROMOTING OUR JEWISH HERITAGE THROUGH ISRAELI DANCE AND MUSIC
Building bridges and lifting spirits through Israeli dance
Where joy, love, wellness and big smiles create lasting bonds
Join Us for an Unforgettable Israeli Dance Master Class!
Get ready to experience the joy and energy of Israeli dance at our upcoming Master Class, led by two incredible instructors—Noa Bar Or and Keren Oren from Israel. Taking place in Houston from August 8-10, 2025, this workshop is open to dancers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. Whether you're coming solo or bringing friends, you’re in for a lively and inspiring weekend filled with music, movement and connection.
Reach out to us at norma@macholhouston.org to learn about exciting sponsorship opportunities.
About Our Instructors:
Noa Bar Or:
A beloved Israeli folk dance teacher, choreographer, and fitness instructor, Noa brings passion and purpose to her teaching. She shares her son Uri’s inspiring legacy through dance. Uri, a gifted musician and artist, tragically lost his life while serving in the Israeli army in May 2024. His legacy lives on through Noa’s dance creations, including "The Door Will Be Open"—a dance that celebrates kindness, inclusion, and hope. Noa's classes are more than just dance—they are a journey of healing, storytelling, and connection.
Keren Oren:
An accomplished Israeli folk dance instructor with over 15 years of experience, Keren is known for her vibrant energy and deep connection to Israeli dance traditions. She has led dance sessions at major festivals, including the Karmiel Dance Festival and Ashdodance, and has performed on the national stage at Israel’s Independence Day ceremony. Her workshops are a perfect blend of tradition, artistry, and joy.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the best and become part of our dance community. Register now and experience the magic of Israeli dance with Noa and Keren!
Listen to *The Heartbeat*: https://youtu.be/VCLDsvfDws8?si=h_MIRzeINOnA5ZL8
Uri's love for music and dance intertwined. While in high school, he choreographed a dance for his class and today, his mother Noa continues to teach it in dance sessions and schools, keeping his spirit alive through movement.
Uri’s dance:
https://youtu.be/EAPI_eL3ZrI?si=Qp8aBDOjLfG2MLNg
https://youtube.com/shorts/nubr5HhfGSc?si=aFtmLGcHKWk6_Pkg
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCWm00ssRPd/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.facebook.com/100001198096319/videos/1275873550137222/
In Uri’s honor, Noa created a dance called *The Door Will Be Open*, which reflects his personality and values. The song, performed by a special needs group, incorporates sign language, emphasizing inclusion and kindness—traits that defined Uri. He had an open heart for others, always ready to help.
The Door Will Be Open Musical Video https://youtu.be/jUVVw7YTSBI?si=ROAOu_q5S9OgD6rQ
Choreography by Noa https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1D6yX58ZDZ/?mibextid=7J6EjN
Noa’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001198096319
Machol Houston dancers dazzle at OKIE event
In Oklahoma City, members of Machol Houston – Beth Lefkowitz, Adele Ownby, Rinat Alatin, Gina Winslow, Miriam Koslin, Adriana Fallas, Norma Szub and Zulema Villatobos – performed at an annual OKIE event.
Published Jewish Herald-Voice • Thu, Dec 05, 2024
Preparation, training and teamwork paid off for dancers of Machol Houston. Their hard work culminated in an extraordinary performance on Thursday, Nov. 21, in Oklahoma City at the OKIE – Oklahoma Israel Exchange – annual fundraising event. The event at the Omni Hotel was an evening celebrating Israeli culture, music and dance.
Edie S. Roodman, OKIE executive director, approached Machol Houston during the summer with an invitation: Would Machol Houston be interested in traveling to Oklahoma City to perform at their event?
What began as a friendly conversation became Machol Houston’s first out-of-town performance. Eight members of the dance group went to Oklahoma.
Machol Houston’s performance was elevated by the live accompaniment of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Orchestra. Dancing to iconic songs such as “Yisrael Sheli” and “Am Yisrael Chai,” the performers brought the spirit of Israel to life on stage.
“Yisrael Sheli,” which celebrates the beauty and spirit of Israel, features choreography by Gadi Bitton and marks Israel’s 70th anniversary.
“Am Yisrael Chai” resonates as an anthem of resilience and hope, especially poignant since Oct. 7, 2023, and the ongoing war in the Middle East.
The audience of 350 was mesmerized by the group’s skillful performance, which combines intricate choreography with the powerful energy of live music.
Since its 1992 founding, OKIE has strengthened ties between Oklahoma and Israel through cultural, educational and commercial programs. This event exemplified that mission, creating a platform to celebrate Israeli heritage while fostering unity and understanding.
Machol Houston, a Houston nonprofit organization, is dedicated to preserving and promoting Jewish culture through Israeli dance and music. The group offers inclusive weekly dance sessions, annual workshops with world-renowned choreographers and therapeutic dance programs for seniors. Its mission is to create a joyful community where people of all backgrounds can connect through movement and tradition.
The milestone performance in Oklahoma City was a testament to the dedication and talent of Machol Houston members and also a celebration of the unifying power of dance and music.
“Dreams are not just goals; they’re a journey enriched by the people who believe in them,” said Norma Szub, Machol Houston program director. “This was a dream come true, and we’re excited for what the future holds.”
To learn about Machol Houston’s programs or to support its mission, go to macholhouston.org.