March 21, 2004
The South African Zionist Federation, in association with the JNF, hosted the phenomenally successful "Off Simches" Chassidic song-and-dance group from Bnei Brak.

"Off Simches", one of Israel's top 10 groups, has successfully bridged the gap between the Orthodox and the secular, not only in Israel but in diaspora communities as far afield as the USA, South Africa, Switzerland, Hungary and Germany.  Their music is vibrant and exciting, consisting of traditional Chassidic tunes set to modern rythyms and beats which are appealing and enticing to audiences of all ages; and their performance is electrifying.
 
More than 460 people attended the SA Zionist Federation evening which was called "Dance of Simches", the title on one of the CDs that the group has produced, and the spirit and enthusiasm were palpable.  Soon after the commencement of the show, various groups in the audience spontaneously got up to dance and sing along with the professionals, shouting for more and reluctant to let them finish.  The group was most impressed with this wonderful reception; and it is to be hoped that the members will return to SA in the not too distant future for a repeat performance.
 
This was the first event to be hosted by the SA Zionist Federation as part of its 2004 Israel Festival.  The next events are the commemorative Yom Hazikaron ceremony, on Sunday evening 25 April, followed on Monday evening 26th April by the Yom Ha'atzmaut festivities which it is hoped will draw many thousands to celebrate in style and with flair and delight Israel's 56th birthday.