Naharin & Batsheva GAGA Benefit for Japan’s Earthquake Victims

Ohad Naharin and the dancers of the Batsheva Dance Company will hold a huge Gaga Happening to benefit the victims of the earthquake in Japan on Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 20:30 in Hangar 11 at the Port of Tel Aviv. All proceeds from the event will be donated to earthquake victims.

Gaga is the movement language originally developed by Ohad Naharin to work with the dancers in Batsheva. Over time, he realized that this way of moving and its use of imagery, could work for everyone, not only dancers, and today there are Gaga people classes as well as Gaga classes for dancers. It really is suitable for people of all ages and different physical abilities – and it’s fun!

Admission to this one-time mass class will be 50 NIS, all additional donations will be welcomed, and the proceeds will be directed to the Japanese Red Cross, through a bank account set up for this purpose by the Embassy of Japan in Israel.

The event will be jointly produced by the Batsheva Dance Company, Gaga Movement, Hangar 11, the Port of Tel Aviv and many volunteers who are helping out with the huge event.

“The idea originated in a conversation with my partner Eri,” said Naharin, “it is a worthy cause and we found a way through which we could help those people hurt in the earthquake, that also offers the possibility of giving an hour of pleasure to all those who participate in the event.” Eri Nakamura, Naharin’s partner, said, “The sorrow is endless, I am glad that I can take part in the Gaga event and in this way, help many more people.”

The largest Gaga event to take place so far has included 200 people. The organizers hope this will be the largest ever, with 1,000 people participating.

If this is your first Gaga experience, here’s all you need to know:

Gaga people is intended for everyone, there is no need to have ANY previous dance experience. Gaga connects people to pleasure, groove and exertion, strengthens the body, makes it more flexible and wakes it up! Wear anything that feels comfortable to move in, no special clothing necessary. The class lasts for one hour of constant movement, following the teacher’s instructions. Ohad Naharin will direct the class with the assistance of additional Gaga teachers – dancers from the Batsheva Dance Company. Please come wearing comfortable clothes, without any extra bags or other stuff that might get in the way.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at Hangar 11, Port of Tel Aviv. Doors open at 19:30, class begins at 20:30. Latecomers will not be admitted. Tickets can be ordered in advance either online, or call 03-5104037. Tickets purchased at the door are cash only.