The Vertigo Dance Company stands as one of the most innovative and internationally celebrated contemporary dance troupes in Israel, known for its groundbreaking fusion of artistic excellence and environmental consciousness. Founded in 1992 by artistic director Noa Wertheim and general manager Adi Sha'al, the company has carved out a unique space in the global dance landscape by integrating rigorous physical movement with social and ecological responsibility. Operating from their home base in the Elah Valley, the ensemble pioneered a revolutionary approach to performing arts by establishing an eco-artistic community that bridges the gap between human creativity and the natural world. Through world-renowned productions and educational programs, Vertigo exemplifies how contemporary choreography can serve as a catalyst for environmental mindfulness and social inclusion.
History and Artistic Development
The origins of Vertigo Dance Company are deeply rooted in the artistic partnership of Noa Wertheim and Adi Sha'al, who sought to create a collaborative space that challenged conventional boundaries of performance. Both founders brought extensive training in classical and modern dance, but they were particularly drawn to the fluid, gravity-defying techniques of contact improvisation and release method. In 1992, they established the company in Jerusalem, quickly earning accolades for their early pieces such as Giselle and Mana, which was eventually archived by Jacob's Pillow Dance Interactive as a testament to their international reach. Over the decades, Wertheim's signature choreography has evolved into a highly distinct movement language characterized by a constant play with balance, weight, and spiritual exploration. This unique choreographic style reflects a profound connection to the earth, which became the guiding philosophy behind their permanent home.
A pivotal moment in the company's trajectory occurred in 2007, when the group transitioned to an intentional, sustainable community at Kibbutz Netiv HaLamed-Heh. This move led to the creation of the Vertigo Eco-Art Village, an innovative hub where artists, environmentalists, and the public engage in holistic living and creative work. The village was built on principles of permaculture, greywater recycling, organic agriculture, and traditional mud-brick construction, establishing a physical manifestation of Vertigo's core philosophy. Here, the company members live, rehearse, and teach, allowing their artistic creation to be directly influenced by the rhythms of the earth and ecological stewardship. This seamless integration of art and nature has redefined contemporary dance practice in Israel and inspired similar eco-artistic initiatives globally.
Key Highlights of Vertigo
- Founding and Leadership: Co-founded in 1992 by choreographer Noa Wertheim and manager Adi Sha'al, Vertigo has remained a leading force in Israeli contemporary dance for over three decades, performing on prestigious global stages.
- The Eco-Art Village: Established in 2007 in the Elah Valley at Kibbutz Netiv HaLamed-Heh, the village serves as a fully functioning sustainable community, featuring ecological studios, permaculture gardens, and greywater systems.
- Power of Balance Program: Vertigo pioneered the Power of Balance initiative, which facilitates contact improvisation classes and professional performances that integrate dancers with and without physical disabilities as equal creative partners.
- Signature Repertoire: Choreographer Noa Wertheim has created an extensive body of work, including critically acclaimed pieces such as One, One & One, Yama, Pardes, and Makom, which explore human relationships, spiritual connections, and natural elements.
Artistic Innovation and Environmental Ecology
The choreographic genius of Noa Wertheim lies in her ability to translate abstract ecological concepts into visceral, highly physical stage movements. In works like One, One & One and Makom, the dancers utilize contact improvisation to explore the physical tension between isolation and community, mirroring the ecological systems of interdependence. The choreography frequently incorporates natural materials on stage, such as soil or water, forcing the performers to adapt their movements to the shifting tactile realities of their environment. By utilizing release techniques and floor work, the dancers maintain a continuous, organic dialogue with gravity, which symbolizes the human connection to the earth. To learn more about their current performances, educational workshops, and eco-artistic philosophy, readers can visit the official Vertigo Dance Company website.
Furthermore, Vertigo's commitment to social ecology is best demonstrated through its groundbreaking educational and inclusive outreach programs. The company's Power of Balance program is an internationally recognized center for integrated dance, using contact improvisation to break down physical and social barriers. According to the official Power of Balance Center portal, this program provides a transformative platform where individuals of all abilities can engage in artistic expression as equal partners. By fostering this collaborative environment, Vertigo extends its ecological philosophy of holistic harmony into the social sphere, proving that artistic innovation and social responsibility are deeply intertwined. This dual focus on ecological sustainability and human diversity positions Vertigo as a visionary institution that transcends traditional artistic boundaries.
Cultural and Global Significance
Vertigo Dance Company represents a vital pillar of Israel's modern cultural diplomacy and domestic artistic landscape. By seamlessly blending world-class choreography with pioneering sustainability practices, the company projects a progressive image of Israeli society that is deeply committed to environmental protection, cultural innovation, and social inclusion. Their performances on prestigious international stages from North America to Europe and Asia demonstrate the universal appeal of their artistic message. Locally, the Vertigo Eco-Art Village serves as a crucial educational resource, hosting thousands of visitors annually who learn about permaculture, community living, and expressive movement. Ultimately, Vertigo proves that art can do more than entertain; it can actively heal communities, preserve the environment, and build bridges of understanding across diverse populations.