Karolin - Centre for Polish Folklore

Mira Zimińska-Sygietyńska is an icon of the Polish stage and one of the most well-known Polish actresses of the twentieth century. In 1948, she played a key role in the establishment of Mazowsze Ensemble, which she led from 1955 until her death in 1997. To find out more about the life and work of this remarkable woman, join us for a special tour of the exhibition at the Centre for Polish Folklore.

Dance is undoubtedly one of the most romantic activities you can engage in to celebrate Valentine's Day! This year, we invite you to discover the potential for romance in Polish couple dances at this special workshop, led by members of Mazowsze National Folk Song and Dance Ensemble.

The end of carnival is traditionally a time of singing, dancing and merrymaking, and what better way to celebrate than with a social dance at the Centre for Polish Folklore! Join our guests from the Kujawy region to learn the steps and figures of the best known local dances, discover fascinating regional customs and sample local culinary specialities.

Carnival was a time when masked well-wishers visited households to bring them good health and fertility in the new year. Angels, devils, the three kings, storks and bears ... costume options were many and varied and make for a very colourful scene. During this family workshop we'll explore these fascinating customs and make our own, unique masks to wear for a special carnival party.

Grandmothers' and Grandfathers' Day are great occasions to enjoy some quality family time. And where better to celebrate than at this family workshop at the Centre for Polish Folklore, getting busy with arts and crafts and musical activites, and making memories to last.

January in Poland is a time of celebration and carol singing, and what better place to learn some of the best-known and loved Polish carols than at the headquaters of Mazowsze National Folk Song and Dance Ensemble! Suitable for all ages and levels of experience, this workshop is guarenteed to be a unique musical and cultural experience.

Celebrate National Independence Day and immerse yourself in Polish history and culture at the Centre for Polish Folklore in Karolin. Discover traditional costumes, music and dances, their significance in the struggle for Polish independence, and join our "national" dance workshop, led by Mazowsze Ensemble performers.

This workshop focuses on dances popular in the Sieradz region in Central Poland: the owijok, oberek and polka. Mazowsze Ensemble's performers will teach their basic steps and figures, before introducing participants to the stage forms adopted by the Ensemble. The workshop is open to all adults, irrespective of dance experience.

Explore the fascinating culture of the Sieradz region at the Centre for Polish Folklore. We'll be investigating traditional clothing, music, dance and old-style decorations, making our own, unique paper cut outs to take home as a souvenir.