Following the founding of Ibda'a in 1994 a principal aim of the organization was to use innovative approaches to disseminate the message of the struggle and aspirations of Palestinian people. One means to accomplish this was through dance and music and therefore a dance troupe was formed.

Initially it involved 22 children from Deheisheh and was soon established enough to accept an invitation to perform in France. All the music and choreography in an Ibda'a production are original material created by the group, often using real dialogue as a starting point. The music alone can convey the message of the show, which the dancing then reinforces and enhances.
The aim of the project is to present the Palestinian situation to a domestic and international audience through the medium of dance and music. It also provides the participants with the means to control their future and strengthen their character.

Productions
The dance troupe have 4 productions in its current repertoire and is finalizing a new one.

The Tent: depicts life in Palestine before 1948. It shows the rural lifestyle and the traditions involved in courtship and marriage. The dénouement of the production is the invasion by Israeli soldiers.
The Will: covers the transference of responsibilities between generations, especially for caring for the land and the family.
The Political Prisoners: depicts the reality of life inside jail for Palestinians prisoners. It also illustrates some of the obstacles to peace, with a focus on individuals who are resistant to pursuing a peaceful resolution.
The fourth show: which is currently in production, covers the theme of life in a refugee camp and the desire of the inhabitants to return to their homelands.

The dance troupe is now introducing the new generation 2026-2029 of children to their cultural and historical traditions. Many participants from previous generations are still involved with the group: teaching, dancing with a mixed-generation group or taking part in additional activities. The group has performed in more than 25 countries worldwide, some on several occasions. In addition it is regularly invited to perform within Palestine and always accepts such requests.

Generation of dancers

First generation ( 1995-2000)= 22 dancers

Second generation ( 2000- 2006)= 30 dancers

Third generation ( 2005-2012)= 35 dancers

Fourth generation ( 2011- 2018)= 40 dancers

Fifth generation (2018-2025)= 35-40 dancers

Sixth generation are under preparation .

Project Policy

·       All youth, and children have the right to be protected from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation, regardless of age, ability, gender, ethnicity, religion, or background. We place freedom of expression, equal gender justice, and human rights at the core of all our programs and practices.

Tours and Exhibitions

Ibda'a dancing troupe has  participated in local and international festivals all over the world to promote Palestinian heritage and showcase its culture. These participations provide an opportunity to introduce the global audience to the art of "Dabkeh." Ibda’a Folklore Dance Troupe has delivered powerful performances on prestigious international stages, including:

-The United Nations General Assembly – New York.

-The World Council of Churches – Washington, D.C..

-Native American Heritage Festival on Alcatraz Island – USA (1999).

-First Place Award at the Capital of Arab Culture Festival – Algeria, competing among 18 Asian and African troupes.

-Participation in leading Arab festivals including Jerash, Al-Fuheis (Jordan), and Babylon Festival (Iraq).

-During the 1999 Refugee Conference in New York, renowned Palestinian scholar Edward Said described Ibda’a as:

-Plus Other countries: France, Italy, Denmark, Norway, island, Sweden, Hungary, Greece, Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan, Algeria,USA,Qatar,

Links and news:

-       The Palestinian Museum Digital Archive - أرشيف المتحف الفلسطيني الرقمي : Text : "Children Create Hope and Pride", a Flyer by Ibda'a Cultural Center, 15 October 1999 [0346.02.0065]

-       IBDAA, youth Palestinian dance troup will perform this summer in eight major U.S. cities | The Electronic Intifada

-       Ibdaa Dance Troupe - Dancing With Perseverance - Worldpress.org