The Polonez (poh-LOH-nez) is the oldest of Poland’s five national dances. The “Powitalny Polonez” (poh-VEE-tahl-nih), which means Welcoming Polonaise, was composed by the Polish composer Karol Kurpiński in the 1800s. The Polonez itself has no set choreography. However, due to the slower tempo and the ease of the steps and movements, everyone can join.
Often done to signify the opening of a ball or festivity, one couple will lead numerous couples in a walking procession around the floor that will take them through various movements and combinations that are typical for this dance. As a national dance, many forms of the dance can be found in all the regions of Poland. The Powitalny Polonez has been choreographed to make it feel intimate, as couples begin the dance with three other couples in a small circle but soon open up the dance to join and welcome the rest of the dancers in four large circles covering the whole floor, only to end back with their friends in their original circle.
Presented by Richard Schmidt in 2012. View pdf here.
