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- Written by Silvia Golan & Stephen Abrahams
From the 1st till the 6th of September the fourth Jerusalem International Solo Dance Festival will be held. It promises to be a week of unparalleled creativity, dance, wine and culture.
The festival's artistic director, Ms. Miriam Engel, founder of the Engel Dance Company who is a choreographer, dancer, actress and entrepreneur will present programmes with the participation of 45 artists from 13 countries including the Republic of China (Taiwan), Japan, U.S.A., Czech Republic, Greece, Slovakia, Netherlands, Romania, Argentina, Poland, Italy, Germany and Israel.
On Thursday, 4 September in cooperation with the Taiwanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Culture, an evening entitled "One Night in Taiwan" will be hosted at Hansen House where 8 contemporary dance works by Taiwanese choreographers will be staged alongside a culinary experience of sushi, bubble tea, traditional Taiwanese desserts, Taiwanese whiskey and beer representing a multifaceted sensory experience of contemporary culture from the Republic of Taiwan.
On Tuesday, 2nd of September and Wednesday, the 3rd of September an "Open Sky Event" at Hansen House and the Jerusalem Theatre's courtyard will take place including a series of performances representing cultural diversity and dance in forms and shades with international musicians and video artists featuring contemporary dance, butoh dance on a giant circus tripod accompanied by wine tastings in an atmosphere and spirit transcending cultures and boundaries.
On Monday, 1 September a cinematic preview event will be held at the Samadar Theatre which includes the Taiwanese movie "Salute", a breathtaking film depicting the power of movement and courage which involves choosing art. The movie is directed by Yao Hong - Yi and is about the life story and personal journey of internationally renowned dancer, Xu Feng - Yi . A moving and intriguing art video by the renowned American choreographer Morgot Gelbe and dancer Shoshana Brode will also be screened.
The closing event to be held on Saturday night, the 6th of September at the Jerusalem Theatre is entitled "If Alone, Then Be In Motion". The concert is a collaborative effort between the festival's artistic director, Miriam Engel, Avishai Cohen, artistic director of the Jerusalem Jazz Festival, a trumpeter of international standing who lives and works in New York.and Arkady Duchin, one of Israel's most iconic and influential voices in music.
The festival will be held with the support of Israel's Ministry of Culture and Sport, Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Municipality of Jerusalem, the Jerusalem Foundation, the Jerusalem Development Authority, Embassies and cultural institutes.
For further information click on the following link, jisdf.co.il
Tickets include wine and start from 120 shekels.
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- Written by Silvia Golan
“During the summer months, the phenomenon of dog abandonment reaches alarming peaks: more and more families travel abroad and leave their four-legged family members behind. This year, against the backdrop of the complex security and economic situation, there has been a sharp decline in awareness and willingness to adopt. The abandoned dogs have become invisible, pushed to the bottom of the public agenda. Precisely now, when dogs need us more than ever, it is time to open our hearts and our homes.”
So said Adam Arbiv, Chairman of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Israel, at a dog adoption event held at Hollandia ahead of International Dog Day, which falls on August 26.
The event highlighted the joint activity of Hollandia and the SPCA Israel throughout the month of August:Adopt a Dog – Receive a TEMPUR Dog Mattress as a Gift”
Anyone presenting an adoption form for a dog at Hollandia branches will receive a TEMPUR dog mattress as a gift—valued between 687–985 NIS.
This activity is valid only during August.
Hollandia launches a TEMPUR mattress for dogs, designed with advanced space technology, allowing dogs and their owners to enjoy quality sleep.
A recent survey conducted by Geocartography found that 15% of Israel’s population sleeps in the same bed with their dogs.
Although International Dog Day is officially marked on August 26 each year, Hollandia decided to dedicate the entire month of August to raising awareness of the welfare of man’s best friend.
In cooperation with the SPCA Israel, Hollandia chose to dedicate August to raising awareness of dog adoption and welfare. The SPCA is currently working to highlight the dire situation in which dogs are abandoned by their owners during the summer months, when families travel abroad for long vacations. Hundreds of dogs are abandoned across the country during this period—a life-threatening reality for them, often leaving long-term effects such as separation anxiety.
Adam Arbiv, Chairman of the SPCA Israel: “During the summer months, the phenomenon of dog abandonment reaches alarming peaks. As the vacation season begins, more and more families travel abroad and leave their four-legged family
members behind. This year, against the backdrop of the complex security and economic situation, there has been a sharp decline in awareness and willingness to adopt. The abandoned dogs have become invisible, pushed to the bottom of the public agenda. Precisely now, when dogs need us more than ever, it is time to open our hearts and our homes.”
To encourage Israelis to take action and adopt dogs in need, Hollandia is launching an unprecedented initiative: “Adopt a Dog – Receive a TEMPUR Dog Mattress as a Gift.” Anyone presenting proof of dog adoption during August at any Hollandia branch nationwide will receive a TEMPUR mattress, suited to the size of the dog, valued between 687–985 NIS.
A recent Geocartography survey revealed that 15% of Israelis sleep with their dogs in bed. While this figure highlights the strong bond between people and their pets, it is not recommended to sleep with dogs. Studies show that sharing a bed can negatively affect sleep quality for both humans and dogs, and may encourage dependency, making it harder for the dog to adapt to independent sleep. Some dogs may also develop possessive behavior over the bed, potentially leading to aggression toward other household members.
Therefore, the ultimate solution is an independent dog bed. Hollandia recently launched the TEMPUR Dog Bed—a mattress specially designed for man’s best friend, ensuring restful, high-quality sleep. Made from advanced TEMPUR materials developed by NASA, the mattress offers maximum comfort and healthy rest. It is lightweight and portable with a convenient carrying handle, perfectly fits any corner of the home, and ensures hygiene with a removable cover, non-slip bottom, and liquid-resistant fabric that protects against mold and fungi.
The mattresses are available in sizes S, M, and L, priced between 687–985 NIS depending on size.
This week, Hollandia’s Herzliya branch hosted a special “Adopt a Dog” event ahead of International Dog Day, featuring various activities to raise awareness for dog adoption and welfare, as well as showcasing dogs available for adoption.
To donate to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Israel: *4553 o https://spca.co.il/chance
Photos credit Silvia G. Golan
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On Thursday afternoon, 31 July 2025 a meeting of the Jewish Women's Initiative Project, a gathering was hosted at the Museum of Tolerance.
The Women's Leaders Forum was established with a clear vision to create a community of groundbreaking women serving as a beacon of inspiration and action in Israeli society. The belief in the ability and power of women to lead change, influence and create a better reality for everyone. The organisation's core values are innovation, solidarity, social responsibility and the inspiration of leadership. Through relentless action the organisation strives in its mission and this is exactly the spirit that motivates and drives it.
At the Jewish Women's Unity Initiative launch held last Thursday a tour was conducted of the "6.29 Exhibition" focusing and depicting the tragedy that occured on the 7th of October 2023 providing thought and encouraging discussion. After the exhibition's tour the delegates had a discussion in various groups with the intention of connecting, learning and deepening ties while promoting a discourse of unity and tolerance, a core value of their forum.
The guest of honour, Prof. Dr. Rene Hanania Levy ,a professor of Neuroscience at the University of Seattle accompanied by his glamorous wife launched his latest book entitled "In An Age Of Sinat Chinam".
Present were Tali Dvir Livnat, founder of the Women Leadership Forum who is also a fine artist having exhibited internationally. She also campaigns vigorously for the release of hostages held in Gaza. Dr. Aliza Lavie, a former member of Israel's parliament, a lecturer at Bar Ilan University teaching "Women in Judaism" and author of five books, a social activist and founder of "120 Women Leadership" which she founded four years ago during the social unrest which was prevalent then in Israeli society.
Diplomacy.co.il and https:/
Photos credit Silvia G. Golan
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Following Argentinian President's visit in June 2024 to Israel, Marcos Ayala the world's greatest Tango virtuoso and choreographer will host 13 concerts in Israel entitled "De Tango y Sombras".
Marcos decided to visit Israel moved by his deep love, support and commitment for Israel.
His new production "De Tango y Sombras" transcends the boundaries of classical Tango and incorporates theatrical elements aimed catering for the general public seeking an extraordinary, immersive and profound cultural experience with a difference.
From the 24th of November till the 7th of December 2025, P.K.G. Productions will host 13 performances of De Tango y Sombras at the Tel Aviv Opera and at other cultural centres throughout the country.
Tango is an art form that reconnects the audience with emotion, warmth and passion with its unique sound, choreography and rhythm awakening the heart of every spectator in the audience with a feeling of melancholic nostalgia, and hope. The production has been considered by critics as one of the most powerful and exciting Tango shows produced for the stage. The theatrical and immersive staging of this production combines virtuosity, a fascinating love story, dramatic lighting and moving music promising to keep the audience on edge with an open heart.
A poetic journey between light and darkness inspired by the Greek myth of Hades and Persephone who are central figures depicting the change of seasons in which strong characters, inner worlds and emotional struggles intertwine.
Tango in all its shades serves as the stage from the sensual to the melancholic and the choreography depicts a human story of longing, devotion, limits and the soul. The dancers, soloists and musicians create a moving visual spectacle in which every step and movement conveys meaning.
Today Marcos Ayala is considered as the a leader in the world of tango both as a dancer, choreographer, and artistic director. In 2006 he won the World Tango Championship in Japan, two Latin ACE awards in New York where he lives and works and was invited to create Cirque du Soleil, a stunning show of acromagic and visuals that explore the imagination. He is acclaimed by critics and audiences throughout the world as the best in Tango.
Shows will take place at The Meir Nazan Centre for Culture and Arts in Rishon LeZion, The Netanya Centre for Culture, The Rappaport Centre in Haifa, The Beersheva Performing Arts Centre, The Karmiel Centre for Culture, The Beit Ha'am Municipal Centre in Rehovot, The Ashdod Centre for Culture, The Tel Aviv Opera, The Modi'in Maccabim Reut Centre, The Kiryat Motzkin Theatre Centre, The Jerusalem Theatre and the Petach Tikva Centre for Culture.
Tickets cost between 195 - 345 Shekels for the 1 hour and 40 minutes production and can be purchased on Bravo. לרכישה בקופת בראבו >> *3221
Click on the following link for a snippet of the production. https://www.youtube.com/watch?
Photos Diego S. Nucera
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- Written by Silvia Golan
KKL-JNF Opens New Visitor Center and Café at Sataf Forest in the Jerusalem Hills
Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) has inaugurated the new Sataf Visitor Center, a leading educational and tourism attraction in the Jerusalem Hills. The site features an advanced information center, a scenic observation deck, outdoor classrooms, and a boutique French-style bakery and patisserie, “The Sataf.”
The hub was designed to make the historical and agricultural heritage of Sataf accessible to visitors, while offering a unique leisure and culinary experience amid the breathtaking landscapes of the Jerusalem mountains.
Inside the center, visitors will find visually engaging information panels along the corridor leading to the observation deck. These panels present details about KKL-JNF’s work, the uniqueness of the site, its ancient agricultural terraces, traditional crops, and hiking trail maps. All information is provided in Hebrew, Arabic, and English. An open-air classroom overlooking the panoramic view allows groups to gather for briefings before heading out on the trails. The entire site is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities.
Adjacent to the center is “The Sataf,” an artisan bakery-patisserie offering French pastries, local wines, and countryside-inspired dishes. Guests can enjoy seating with spectacular views or take a picnic basket to-go. From the bakery, a short walking trail winds through natural woodland, ancient terraces, and orchards, leading to Ein Bikura, a historic spring where visitors can wade through clear waters and walk inside a carved tunnel dating back to the Roman period - an immersive experience blending nature, history, and refreshment.
The Sataf Forest Hub was built following principles of local and ecological architecture, incorporating sustainable elements such as an integrated solar roof connected to the national grid, a green roof for improved thermal insulation without irrigation, and underground drainage systems to manage runoff and enrich the soil. These features minimize environmental impact and ensure the hub blends naturally into the mountainous landscape.
The Sataf site, covering approximately 1,000 dunams (250 acres), preserves the traditional agricultural landscape of the Jerusalem Hills, including two natural springs - Ein Sataf and Ein Bikura. Since 1985, KKL-JNF has worked to restore ancient terraces and irrigation systems as part of an effort to conserve agricultural heritage and make it accessible to the public.
The site is also home to the “Bustanof” project, an initiative where individuals can cultivate small plots and become part of an active environmental community.
For decades, KKL-JNF Switzerland has been a committed partner in the preservation and development of the Sataf site. Their support, alongside that of other international donors, has been instrumental in bringing the new Visitor Center and forest hub to life—reflecting the deep connection between the global Jewish community and Israel’s natural and historical treasures.
In recent months, KKL-JNF’s Jerusalem region has faced major wildfires, which were managed professionally by the organization’s dedicated teams. KKL-JNF continues to monitor the area and prepare for the summer season to ensure visitors' safety and preserve the forest landscape.
KKL-JNF Chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski, stated: “The new Sataf Forest Hub is a living example of the connection between nature, history, and community. We continue to preserve the heritage of the Jerusalem Hills while creating experiences that invite the public to explore, learn, and enjoy - all while protecting the environment and ensuring accessibility for all visitors.”
President of KKL-JNF Switzerland, Arthur Plotke, added: “Sataf is a magical place close to Jerusalem that holds a special place in our hearts. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, this Visitor Center stands as a symbol of sustainable development and deep connection to the land. It invites every visitor to embark on a journey through history, nature, and community.”
Opening Hours: Sunday–Saturday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM (extended hours coming soon)
Location: Sataf – Upper Parking Lot (Waze)
Kosher: All pastries are kosher-certified; the site is open on Shabbat
Accessibility: Fully accessible to the public
Photos Lior Avitan
