Immigrants to Israel, in the 1920's, were exchanging Eastern European urban life for a life of collective farming in Palestine. They expressed their desire to return to the land through dance. Israeli folk dance, with barefoot dancers in loose clothing, leaping and running, reflects the life of a people returning to its own land.

While originally from Europe, Israeli folk dance has been influenced by the traditional dances of different ethnic groups in Israel. Many dances are choreographed to modern Israeli music, which is a blend of western and middle eastern culture.

Today Israeli folk dancing is done around the world - in Israel, Europe, South America, United States, Canada, Australia, and even Japan. Thousands of people participate in Israeli dance classes as a recreational outlet. In addition, folk dance troupes perform at festivals and events throughout the year.

After the establishment of the State in 1948, a variety of professional dance groups were founded, each with its own unique style. Today there are six major dance companies in Israel.

Inbal Dance Theater, founded by Sara Levi-Tanai in 1949, is Israel's oldest professional dance company. The dances of this ensemble often deal with biblical topics, and its repertoire is often based on authentic movement material suggested by traditions of oriental Jewish communities.

Batsheva Dance Company, founded in 1964 by Batsheva de Rothschild, is considered Israel's leading contemporary dance company. The style of this ensemble was originally influenced by Martha Graham, but today its dances are influenced by current choreographers and the company's own artistic director, Ohad Naharin.

The Bat-Dor Dance Company, was founded in 1967 by Batsheva de Rothschild and Jeannette Ordman, its artistic director. There are about 20 dancers in this group, and they perform dances of some of the world's best choreographers.

Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company, founded in 1967, consists of about 15 dancers from different kibbutzim and is based in the northern Galilee. Their artistic director, Yehudit Arnon, has the group perform dances of both local and international choreographers. The group also specializes in performances for young audiences.

The Israel Ballet, founded in 1968, is the country's only professional classical ballet company. Many new immigrant dancers from the former Soviet Union have joined the Israeli Ballet. The group's artistic directors are Berta Yampolsky and Hillel Markman.