During the last two decades, the appeal of Israeli dance has grown and expanded in Israel, the United States and throughout the world. The spirit of warmth and exuberance generated through Israeli folk dance draws enthusiasts from all backgrounds and has made Israeli folk dances an integral part of the international folk dance repertoire as well. More and more people are experiencing the excitement of today's Israeli folk dance activities and they are eager to obtain more information about the background and development of the Israeli folk dance movement.

The Israeli Dance Institute, a comprehensive resource and information center, was established to meet this need. The Israeli Dance Institute (IDI), under the direction of Danny Uziel and Ruth Goodman, offers professional guidance to teachers, community leaders, performing groups and Israeli folk dance enthusiasts through the following services:

1. NIRKODA, the IDI newsletter, provides a review of Israeli and Jewish dance news.

2. Clearinghouse Calendar, a bimonthly list of special Israeli dance and related events.

3. Where to Dance, a comprehensive list of worldwide contacts, open sessions and classes.

4. Resource materials related to Israeli folk dance and Jewish education. Items available for sale include recordings, books, dance notations and related resources.

5. Teaching materials appropriate for various age groups and for holiday programming.

6. Teachers' Workshops including "Dance in Schools" or "Dance in Camp."

7. Annual Israel Folk Dance Festival and Festival of the Arts.

The activities of the Israeli Dance Institute provide a constant reaffirmation of identification with Israel and with Jewish roots, enhancing ties with Israel, within the American Jewish community and between the worldwide folk dance communities.

The Israeli Dance Institute, a nonprofit educational organization, is totally funded through individual and organizational contributions.