All around anniversary cake |
It was a very cold night on Saturday when I arrived at the Liverpool Catholic Club for the 20th Anniversary Ball of the Lajkonik Polish Song and Dance Ensemble. The warm reception I received from Urszula Lang (Lajkonik’s Artistic Director) and her charming daughter Joanne as I entered the Function Room of the club, soon made me forget about the cold.
Inside was a match for the Grand Ball rooms of Europe. Beautifully decorated tables adorned with white table cloths, red napkins and shiny silver cutlery. Guests in their black and white suits and flowing gowns were directed and assisted to their tables by some of the performers in striking blue military uniforms, a symbol of Poland’s past.
At first the near capacity guest list were entertained by the 40 strong Lajkonik Ensemble with dances such as the Polonaise, Mazur, and the Goralskie, which were performed with precision, grace, simple charm and infectious happiness. For me, as a past dancer with Warsawska Syrenka (former Dance Ensemble which existed from 1973 to 1981 under the direction of Jozef Walczak), this presentation was a toe tapping and memorable performance. The Ensemble finished with lively dances from the Opoczno Region.
All photos Bogumila Filip |
Afterwards, we all were treated to a delicious three course meal and were entertained by a five piece Latin band to which most of the guests danced ‘till the venue closed. I personally had a chance to catch up with a lot of good friends and old acquaintances which really made the night nostalgic.
To Urszula Lang, Lajkonik’s committee and of course the Lajkonik’s performers - CONGRATULATIONS and THANK YOU for the past twenty years. All your hard work and impeccable discipline and devotion to Polish culture is like a bright shining light on a dark stormy night.
Bill Snelling
Photo: Bogumila Filip
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