„Wielkopolanie” in Cyprus
The Folklore Ensemble “Wielkopolanie” made its 131st international trip between 11 and 15 September 2025. The destination was Cyprus, the 67th country visited by the ensemble’s dancers, where an International Folklore Festival took place. Apart from “Wielkopolanie,” the festival featured groups from countries such as Bulgaria, Turkey, and Cyprus. The trip brought the dancers many experiences – in addition to taking part in the festival, there were opportunities to explore interesting places in Cyprus, discover the beauty of the region, and relax by the sea or at the swimming pool.
Upon arrival in the town of Alsancak, where the ensemble was accommodated, the group had time to get to know the hotel and its surroundings. The day was spent enjoying the hotel’s pool attractions, tasting local cuisine, and walking around the area, which allowed the dancers to discover the charm of the island. There was also time for rehearsals before the upcoming concerts.
The following day began with a unique boat cruise on the Mediterranean Sea. It was truly special, as the ensemble spent over six hours on the water with opportunities to swim, dive, observe the seabed, jump into the sea, and taste local dishes prepared onboard during the voyage. In the evening, the group traveled to Gazimağusa, where, together with the other festival participants, they performed for the local audience, presenting dances from the Silesian region.
The final day in Cyprus was devoted to sightseeing in Famagusta and its surroundings. The ensemble visited many remarkable sites, including the 13th-century Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, the city walls, the ruins of ancient buildings, and the so-called ghost town of Varosha, an abandoned tourist district depopulated during the 1974 conflict. In the evening, the dancers traveled to Trikomo for the last concert of the festival, where they presented dances from the Silesian Beskids.
The 131st international trip of the Folklore Ensemble “Wielkopolanie” gave the dancers the opportunity to present Polish folk traditions in yet another corner of the world, while for the group’s members it was also a chance to experience the beauty of Cyprus, its culture, and its unique charm. The management and artists of “Wielkopolanie” would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Marshal’s Office for financially supporting this journey.
KF
