Rina Schenfeld: A Life in Pointe Shoes
As a young ballet dancer myself, just starting to carve my path in the demanding world of professional dance, I've always been drawn to stories of the greats who paved the way. Rina Schenfeld, born in 1938 in the nascent nation of Israel, is a name that resonates not just in the history of Israeli ballet, but in the broader landscape of international dance. To tell her story is to delve into a period of incredible change, of artistic fervour and nation building, and to see how a woman's talent and sheer will can truly shape a nation's artistic identity.
Rina's journey began in Tel Aviv, a city brimming with a youthful energy and a deep desire to forge a new cultural identity. While the world watched the unfolding tragedy of the Second World War, the budding Israeli state was laying the foundations for a vibrant artistic landscape. It was against this backdrop, in 1949, that the newly established Inbal Dance Theatre opened its doors, a beacon of national identity and artistic expression. This would be Rina's chosen stage, her artistic home.
The world of Inbal, as Rina later described it, was one of fierce dedication, an atmosphere that was as rigorous as it was supportive. Her teacher, Sarah Levi-Tanai, was not only an incredible dancer but also a fierce advocate for a uniquely Israeli style. They sought to infuse their art with the spirit of their homeland, with its rich blend of Eastern and Western influences, its folklore, and its ancient myths.
Rina's talent was undeniable, evident from her early performances. It wasn't simply the technical mastery, the grace of her movements, or the strength of her physique; it was a sense of expression that spoke volumes. Inbal gave her a platform, a language, a family. The troupe became her world, her haven, and her training ground. They travelled, they danced, they brought Israeli art to the world, sharing their stories and forging connections with other dance communities.
The world of dance was, even in that era, a competitive arena. Yet, Rina didn't shy away. In 1958, she secured a prestigious scholarship from the Bolshoi Ballet School in Moscow, a truly remarkable feat given the complex political relationship between Israel and the Soviet Union. The training in Moscow was brutal, demanding absolute discipline and precision, and it stretched Rina’s artistic muscles further than ever before. This period was crucial in her development, deepening her technical prowess and expanding her repertoire.
Upon her return to Israel, Rina was ready to make her mark. She became a principal dancer at Inbal, showcasing a new, refined power in her movements, infused with a refined understanding of classical technique and the spirit of her homeland. She graced stages with poise, confidence, and passion, drawing the audience into the stories she embodied. Some of her most iconic roles included "The Bride" in Inbal’s “Yemenite Wedding,” “Ruth" in the Biblical adaptation "Ruth", and "Aisha” in the Middle Eastern-inspired "Arabian Rhapsody."
Rina’s impact went far beyond her own performances. As the years progressed, she assumed a more senior role at Inbal, leading workshops and contributing to the development of the choreography, a vital element of the troupe’s success. She nurtured young dancers, guiding them with her experience and unwavering commitment to the art form. Her influence echoed within the Israeli dance scene, inspiring aspiring dancers with her unwavering dedication.
In her later years, Rina remained connected to the dance world, working as a teacher and a consultant, offering valuable advice and ensuring the legacy of Israeli dance continued to thrive. In the world of dance, especially a scene so heavily driven by youthful energy and agility, staying relevant after retirement is a difficult feat. Rina's talent and vision made it possible for her to seamlessly transition from a performer to a pillar of wisdom, sharing her invaluable experiences and passion with future generations.
To understand Rina's legacy, we must look beyond the mere chronology of her achievements. We must recognise the role she played in shaping a nation's artistic identity, the tireless commitment she demonstrated to fostering young talent, and the unique blend of technical excellence and emotional expression that defined her performance. It is within this context that the true brilliance of Rina Schenfeld shines, illuminating a lifetime dedicated to the dance that moved her and touched countless others.
Here's a deeper look into her legacy:
International Recognition
- Rina’s performances with Inbal Dance Theatre took her to stages across the globe.
- The troupe's international acclaim established Israel on the map of world dance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and unique style of Israeli choreography.
- The dance world saw a talented individual with a fierce determination, an artist whose talent and passion helped create a space for Israeli dancers and artists to thrive on the world stage.
A Legacy of Cultural Fusion
- Inbal, and the unique style it fostered, provided a platform to explore and celebrate the intersection of Eastern and Western influences in Israeli culture.
- Rina embraced these traditions and helped develop the aesthetic, embodying them in her performances and passing them on to young dancers, shaping a new and exciting form of dance that drew upon Israel’s multifaceted cultural identity.
- She saw her role as not just a dancer but as an ambassador for the art and culture of her nation. Her talent became a powerful tool to share Israel’s artistic tapestry with the world.
The Influence on Young Dancers
- As a mentor, Rina provided guidance to a generation of young Israeli dancers, shaping their training and guiding their artistic development.
- She recognised talent in young dancers, nurturing it, pushing them to their potential, and building the next generation of stars in Israeli ballet.
- Rina’s presence within Inbal provided a powerful, stabilizing presence, ensuring continuity and mentorship as the company and Israeli ballet continued to develop.
An Example of Artistic Resilience
- The early years of the State of Israel were turbulent, challenging, and full of change. Rina Schenfeld emerged from these uncertain times as a shining beacon of artistic resilience, proving that creative spirit can flourish even under duress.
- Her personal dedication and the dedication of her fellow dancers at Inbal underscored the idea that art could offer a powerful refuge and sense of hope in challenging circumstances, highlighting its ability to transcend the socio-political turmoil.
- Rina's story highlights that even within a fledgling nation with scarce resources, ambition and artistic vision could still rise, defying limitations and demonstrating the powerful connection between artistic expression and nation building.
An Ongoing Impact
- Rina Schenfeld's story lives on not just through the stories and archives, but in the dancers she mentored, the artists who continue to infuse Israeli dance with that unique blend of strength, grace, and cultural depth.
- Her legacy extends to young dancers across the globe, showing that perseverance, commitment to your craft, and a strong artistic vision can truly create lasting change.
- Rina’s dedication to pushing boundaries, and embracing the fusion of cultural influences in her art, reminds us that dance can be a powerful vehicle for sharing narratives, creating dialogue, and celebrating the complexities of cultural identity.
Beyond Technique: Rina Schenfeld, a story of dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. Her journey from a young dancer in Tel Aviv to a legend within Israeli and international ballet speaks volumes about the dedication needed to achieve greatness and the powerful connection between art and cultural identity. Her story, though a historical one, remains vital and inspiring. As I navigate the complexities of my own artistic path, I find myself drawn back to Rina’s journey, reminded of the dedication and perseverance required to create beauty on a stage, and leave a lasting impact on the art we love so dearly.