Thai Tour

The Wielkopolska group returned from another tour. This time, the oldest group traveled to distant Thailand – mature dancers, intimately familiar with both stage fright and the satisfaction of a successful performance. It was an intense and exciting journey, one that lingers in the memory for a long time. Even after stepping off the plane and facing the sweltering Thai heat, it became clear that it wouldn’t be easy – but it was also clear that the challenge was met.

The first few hours in Bangkok demonstrated the city’s energy: the vibrant life, colors, and scents created an atmosphere of a completely different world. Among the groups from New Zealand, Colombia, Mexico, and the Philippines, there was a sense of stage fright, as well as a sense of responsibility to present Polish tradition. The shared bus ride with the group from New Zealand was particularly memorable – full of kindness, humor, and warmth, making long journeys seem shorter and more enjoyable.

The first concert, held in Lopburi, introduced everyone to the festival rhythm. After a short rehearsal, adjustments, and costume fitting, the program was presented, which, as always, made a strong impression. The Polish costumes proved to be one of the greatest assets: shiny embroidery, intense reds, and navy blues stood out against the bright stage, and the richness of tradition was evident in every detail. The audience welcomed the performance with immense warmth.

After this first concert, the group’s instructors, Maciej Sierpiński and Piotr Kulka, signed a cooperation agreement on behalf of the Wielkopolska region to protect and promote cultural heritage with Thai artistic institutions. This was a symbolic yet significant moment, confirming that Polish culture is not only recognized in Thailand but also valued.

On the second day, the performance took place in Angthong, on a much more technically challenging stage—smooth and slippery, almost like marble. There were some unplanned moves during the concert, but this did not affect the quality of the performance. The dancers danced with great concentration and energy, and the audience’s response was very positive. The beauty of Polish costumes, which inspired admiration even before the first beat, was once again highlighted.

The most moving moment came on the third day of the festival. At Suanthai Pattaya, on an open stage in over 30°C heat and almost no wind, two dance blocks were presented. First, elegant and dignified Cieszyn dances, in which every element of the costume – from lace to bonnets and box pleats – worked in concert with the dancers. Next came dynamic, exuberant Rzeszów dances, requiring enormous energy and precision. The audience responded with incredible enthusiasm, applauding for hours, and everyone left the stage feeling they had left their artistic strength behind.

At the conclusion of the festival, the group was awarded numerous awards – for cultivating Polish traditions, for the beauty of Polish dance, and for their unique costumes, which made a huge impression in Thailand. These awards were symbolic, yet incredibly uplifting, confirming that the culture they presented truly moved audiences, even those thousands of miles away.

Among the important events, the organizers also included a visit to an elephant farm. They fed the animals, touched their warm skin, observed their calmness, gentleness, and bonded with their keepers. For many participants, these experiences became one of the most important experiences of the trip – a treasure in itself.

Between concerts, they also participated in the Loy Krathong festival, released water lanterns, met with monks at a temple, and – albeit briefly – relaxed on the islands around Pattaya. Evening conversations, dinner at the night market, the colors, scents, and music created a unique atmosphere.

The return to Poland took place on November 11th. The journey was long and tiring, but accompanied by the satisfaction of a mission well accomplished. The symbolic nature of the date – returning on Independence Day after a week representing Polish culture – concluded the trip beautifully.

This tour demonstrated not only that you can dance beautifully and with full commitment in any conditions. Above all, it showed that Polish costume, music, and dance have the power to influence audiences regardless of geographical location. And that this beauty is worth sharing.

SK