Talented dancers from the Lajkonik Polish Dance Ensemble based in Bankstown, recently enjoyed great success in the World Dance events, which are part of the McDonald’s Performing Arts Challenge.

22-year-old Matthew Iglinski & 20 year old Ania Fraczek took out first place in the senior World Dance event for solos or duos. The adjudicator, Wanda Wotulewicz-Levine praised the choreography of their routine and described their performance as being well executed with lovely eye contact and expression between each other. A group of dancers from Lajkonik Polish Dance Ensemble were also awarded Highly Commended in the Open Age World Dance group event

The World Dance events in the McDonald’s Performing Arts Challenge provide one of the very few performance forums in Australia for folkloric groups to showcase the artistry of their national dance.

Groups performing the national dances of countries from all corners of the world joined the Lajkonik Polish Dance Ensemble to participate in this highly popular event. Some of the nationalities represented included Turkey, India, Serbia, Mexico, Spain, Argentina, Russia, Macedonia and Croatia.

The Sydney Cultural Council, a non-profit arts organization, presents the McDonald’s Performing Arts Challenge. With nearly 300 events and cash awards totalling around $215,000, it is the largest competitive performing arts festival of its kind in the world. Held annually, the Challenge offers valuable performance opportunities for dancers, singers, musicians, actors, writers and composers.

For further information visit www.culturalcouncil.org.au or phone 9261 8366.