As North America’s oldest and largest Israeli folk dance ensemble, the Sarah Sommer Chai Folk Ensemble has brought the spirit of Israel to life on countless stages from their home in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to venues around the world. For six decades, the Chai Folk Ensemble has showcased the beauty of Israeli culture with dancers accompanied by singers and instrumentalists. From its humble beginnings, Chai has grown into a dynamic ensemble beloved internationally, celebrated for its unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Chai’s repertoire features everything from energetic Israeli horas to contemporary original choreography, all performed with the goal of sharing, promoting, and celebrating the rich diversity of Israeli and Jewish culture through music and dance.
The Chai Folk Ensemble has partnered locally with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Rusalka Ukrainian Dance Ensemble, and Folklorama, a yearly festival of the cultural arts. Chai has performed at dance festivals in Israel and Mexico, and performed on tours of Cuba, Ukraine, and across Canada and the United States.
The Sarah Sommer Chai Folk Ensemble is the ideal entertainment for any celebratory, educational or commemorative event where Israel and the pride of the Jewish people is the focus. We can curate any show to fit the needs of your community celebration, gala event, or fundraiser. Phone or email our Administrative Director, Reeva Nepon, at 204-477-7497 or info@chai.ca to discuss your needs.
Click to Download. Photo Credits: Jordan Nepon
“The Chai Folk Ensemble took the audience on an energetic exploration of music and dance that had the audience tapping and clapping along....the singing brought some of the highest points of the evening. The energy was always palpable....the group as a whole never failed to deliver a lively performance. Storytelling, lively music, seemingly tireless dancing, all of it added up to a unique evening that left the audience enlightened and entertained.”
– The Daily Courier Kelowna, British Columbia
“Remarkably poised and technically impressive. And the group is no museum for quaint peasant steps, dreary pacing and folksy costumes…the many-coloured celebration of Jewish culture was packaged with atmospheric lighting, giant projected photo backdrops, striking costumes, an impeccable sound mix, and a tight band that was anchored in thrilling percussion.”
– Winnipeg Free Press
“For our community, this was a rare and overwhelming experience to see vibrant and enthusiastic young artists present such high calibre entertainment.”
– Jewish National Fund of Canada, Edmonton, Alberta Region
“The Chai Folk Ensemble concert was a polished, professional and exuberant evening of music and dance. They were joined for the first time at the Centennial Concert Hall by the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra; the result was an unforgettable experience.”
– The Jewish Post & News
C147-123 Doncaster Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3N 2B2 Canada
