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 meets Line Dancing Workshop!
Machol Houston will present an exciting and innovative weekend experience that brings together two vibrant dance traditions in a first-of-its-kind workshop: Israeli Dance Meets Line Dancing, featuring internationally acclaimed Israeli dance instructor Marcelo Marianoff from Córdoba, Argentina, and Houston-based line dance instructor and choreographer Britt Beresik.
The workshop will take place August 7–9, 2026 and promises a weekend filled with music, movement, learning, friendship and cultural exchange. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the rich traditions of Israeli folk dance while discovering the energy and accessibility of modern line dancing.
As part of the weekend’s activities, Marcelo Marianoff will be a special guest at the Friday evening Shabbat service at Congregation Beth Yeshurun. During the service, he will share his personal journey from Córdoba, Argentina, to becoming one of the most sought-after Israeli dance instructors in the world. Congregants will hear how his passion for dance evolved into a lifelong mission of strengthening Jewish identity, preserving tradition and building community through Israeli folk dance. His story reflects decades of teaching at international camps, festivals and workshops while serving as a cultural ambassador connecting Jewish communities across continents.
Reach out to us at norma@macholhouston.org to learn about exciting sponsorship opportunities.
About Our Instructors:
Marcelo Marianoff:
An internationally renowned Israeli dance instructor and workshop leader from Córdoba, Argentina. He began dancing at the age of five and has spent decades teaching and leading workshops, festivals and camps throughout North and South America, Europe, Israel, Australia and beyond. Fluent in Spanish, English and Hebrew, Marcelo is celebrated for his dynamic teaching style, passion for Israeli dance and ability to bring people together through music, culture and movement. His enthusiasm, knowledge, and global experience have made him one of the most sought-after instructors in the international Israeli dance community.
Britt Beresik:
An award-winning dance instructor and choreographer from Houston, Texas, with more than 25 years of dance experience. Trained in ballet, jazz, tap and music from a young age, Britt later discovered her passion for line dancing and went on to found Cross The Line Dancing Houston. Known for her energetic teaching style and ability to make dancers of all levels feel welcome, she has taught at major dance events across the United States and is recognized for her dedication to building strong dance communities through fun, learning and connection. https://www.linedancinghouston.com/about
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.