Ruth Goodman

Ruth Goodman is the Director of the Israeli Dance Institute and a leading figure in the world of Israeli folk dance. She succeeded Fred Berk as Director of 92NY’s Jewish/Israeli Dance Division and has guided the renowned Wednesday night dance sessions for more than 40 years. Founder of the Parparim Ensemble and longtime educator, Ruth has choreographed, taught, and inspired generations of dancers across the Americas and Israel.

Tamar Epstein

Tamar discovered her love for Israeli Folk Dance at just three years old under the guidance of Lorraine Arcus and has been dancing, performing, and teaching ever since. Inspired by renowned mentors like Ruth Goodman and Danny Pollock, she has become a creative force in the community. Her choreography includes well-known dances such as Lamadeti, Yerushalayim, Chayai Libi, Am KeLavi Yakum, and At Lo Yadat.

Meliss Jakubovic

Meliss Jakubovic, a second-generation Israeli folk dancer from Atlanta, began dancing at age seven and has led her community’s weekly harkada since she was sixteen. Celebrated for her graceful, precise style and clear instruction, she brings warmth and expertise to every session. Meliss is thrilled to join the RikudAmerica staff and share her own choreography and lifelong passion for Israeli dance.

Tamar Shabtai

Originally from Israel and now based in Chicago, Tamar Shabtai has been immersed in Israeli folk dance since childhood. A graduate of Gadi Bitton’s instructors’ course, she began choreographing at 12 and is best known for her popular dance K’she’Ba HaGa’agu’a (“When the Longing Comes”). Energetic and passionate, Tamar now shares her love of Israeli dance by teaching in local JCC programs and community settings.