And when the feet belong to the dancers of the Parparim Ensemble, the answer is expressed in terms of smiles and cheers.

The Parparim Ensemble impressively demonstrates the diversity of the Jewish people and modern Israeli culture through an exhilarating program of dance and song. Spirited and captivating, Parparim has thrilled audiences in the United States and Israel since 1975.

Under the direction of Ruth Goodman, the Ensemble continues to expand its repertoire, inspired by the many influences shaping Israeli folk dance today. Together with its talented musicians, Parparim welcomes audiences large and small, young and the young at heart, and can accommodate the special needs of sponsors. Instructional workshops may also be arranged. Every program -- a full concert, an informal performance or instructional offering -- involves the audience in an exciting, unique and educational experience.

The Parparim Ensemble has performed at major concert halls and arts centers, Jewish community centers, college campuses, summer camps, elder hostels, Israeli and international festivals and has been featured on network television programs. Expressive and energetic, Parparim continues to delight its audiences.

For further information concerning performance and programming possibilities, contact the Israeli Dance Institute.

Ruth Goodman also directs the Annual Israel Folk Dance Festival and Festival of the Arts and is a co-director of the Israeli Dance Institute and the Jewish Dance Division of the 92nd Street "Y" in New York City. She conducts workshops and seminars throughout North and South America, including teachers workshops for the Board of Jewish Education and for CAJE. Ms. Goodman has participated in numerous tours to Israel as both director and an observer of Israeli music and dance events. Ms. Goodman holds a Master of Arts degree in dance education from Columbia University Teacher's College.