A record number of couples danced the polonaise in Vilnius

The “Factum” agency has entered a new achievement in the Book of Outstanding Achievements of Lithuania (formerly called the Book of Records of Lithuania) – the most numerous performance of the polonaise – 192 couples danced the polonaise together. The polonaise on Cathedral Square was a demonstration of the unity and strength of the spirit of Poles on the anniversary of the Soviet invasion of Poland, as well as a beautiful culmination of the 15th edition of the Nations’ Fair.

A total of 384 dancers, or 192 couples dressed in Polish national costumes, danced the polonaise on the Cathedral Square in Vilnius. The choreography of this unique dance was prepared by Danuta Mieczkowska-Kowalczuk. She was also supported by choreographers: Andrzej Kostygin, Ewa Gulbinowicz-Abariune, Aneta Kozłowska and Teresa Andruszkiewicz.

The dancers were accompanied by an orchestra led by Vytautas Lukočius. In her performance, Wojciech Kilar’s polonaise from the film “Pan Tadeusz” sounded exceptionally solemn. It was a beautiful culmination of the Nations’ Fair.

Among the ensembles participating in this unique event were: Song and Dance Ensemble “Świtezianka”, Song and Dance Ensemble “Znad Mereczanki”, Children and Youth Dance Ensemble “Przyjaźń”, Song and Dance Ensemble “Ojcowizna”, Children and Youth Ensemble “100 Uśmiechów”, Song and Dance Ensemble “Troczanie”, Song and Dance Ensemble “Kwiaty Polskie”, Song and Dance Ensemble “Wilenka”, Song and Dance Ensemble “Wileńszczyzna” and Song and Dance Ensemble “Gromada”.

Some ensembles and schools took part in almost full numbers, such as the “Wilia” ensemble, which is represented by 27 pairs, Konstantin Parchevski Middle School in Nemenčinė (Vilnius district) – 19 pairs, Šalčininkai district (Byala Vaka, Jashiny, Eyišiškės, Neniškės) – 23 pairs, Trakai district (Landvaris, Trakai, Polukės) – 19 pairs, and Vilnius district (Lavariškės, Mickuny, Maišiagala) – 23 pairs.

Dance rehearsals took place almost every day for a fortnight in various parts of Vilnius, including the playground of the John Paul II Middle School, the indoor athletics venue of the Lithuanian Sports Union and Vilnius Cathedral Square itself.