Heritage Art High Calibre Dance. Israel Pavilion, Shalom Square Folklorama.

By: Donovan Martin Sr, Editor in Chief

Digital Photo and Video Credit: Don Woodstock

When you walk into Shalom Square at Folklorama, you are stepping into a community built on decades of passion, culture, and relentless dedication. At the absolute heart of this vibrant celebration is Roberta Malam, a true staple of the Israel Pavilion who serves as pavilion coordinator. To volunteer your time and energy with such unwavering constancy is the definition of true commitment. Over the years, Malam has embodied the very spirit of Folklorama by stepping into virtually every role imaginable. From overseeing pavilion operations to rolling up her sleeves in the kitchen, tackling cleaning duties, assisting with the dancers, and watching her own family members grow up through the pavilion, Roberta’s journey mirrors the living history of the festival itself.

Reflecting on the incredible engine that keeps Shalom Square running year after year, Roberta shares that none of this is possible without the volunteers. They come in and they perform at the highest level at all shows, bringing incredible hospitality and a welcoming spirit that makes everyone feel like family. That ethos of warmth and mutual support is what transforms a simple community hall into a cultural home for thousands of visitors each summer, drawing people back year after year to share in the food, music, and fellowship.

For fans of the performing arts, ballet, and dynamic choreography, the Israel Pavilion is an absolute must-see destination. The stage comes alive with a breathtaking caliber of ballet seamlessly fused with modern dance, jazz, and a lively throwback to 1960s samba, led by Sarah Domet and the Chai Folk Ensemble. The choreography moves with a precision that commands the room, blending classical discipline with contemporary energy in a way that appeals to both lifelong dance aficionados and first-time festival-goers alike.

The visual experience is just as striking as the choreography. Featuring straight lines, intricate costumes, and a stunning palette ranging from soft pastels to bright, vibrant colors, the wardrobe acts as a living, breathing background that enhances every leap, turn, and rhythm of the dance. Every detail of the presentation is thoughtfully curated to transport the audience, creating an immersive atmosphere where sight and sound work in perfect harmony to tell a story of heritage and artistic expression.

Beyond the flagship choreography, the pavilion proudly spotlights multiple local performers and bands, proving that homegrown Winnipeg talent is not only surviving—it is thriving at the highest level. These musicians and artists bring an electric energy to the stage, grounding the international influences in a familiar, community-rooted celebration that resonates with everyone in the room.

From the unwavering leadership of veterans like Roberta Malam to the dazzling artistry on stage and the warmth of the volunteers behind the scenes, the Israel Pavilion at Shalom Square remains a staple of Folklorama. It is a place where culture is not just observed, but lived, shared, and celebrated with open arms and exceptional talent.

The dedication required to bring a production of this magnitude together extends far beyond the stage lights and opening numbers. It takes months of behind-the-scenes planning, rehearsals, and community outreach to ensure that every visitor who walks through the doors experiences authentic hospitality. The volunteers, organizers, and performers pour countless hours into perfecting every detail, driven by a shared love for their heritage and a desire to share it with the broader community. This collaborative spirit is what ultimately defines Folklorama, turning a simple summer festival into a powerful tradition of cultural pride and unity that leaves a lasting impression on everyone involved.