| The inaugural monthly European Dance Hall event will, quite literally, ‘kick off’ with the energetic polka classes with Folk Choreographer Yvonne Kower.
Together with dancers of the Polish Folkloric Ensemble ‘Syrenka’ and live accompaniment from accordionist Jerzy Scislowski, you will be transported back to the romantic and energetic heart of Europe’s lively dance halls of
the tumultuous 1930s.
A popular dance amongst peasants in the villages of Europe, the polka’s popularity soared between the two world wars, as people desperately wanted
to kick up their heels, laugh, enjoy life, meet new friends… and, of course, build up a healthy sweat.
Learn the basics of the polka (including steps and partnering skills) in the first hour before developing your own style while being taught some progressive routines. Bring as many partners as you like, or come on your
own. The ‘Syrenka’ Dancers will make sure you’re not a wallflower, and partners will rotate throughout the evening.
Yvonne Kower – Choreographer
As a young child, Yvonne was raised around continental dancing and remembers the stories of European migrants talking of the dance halls organised in Sydney in the 1950s. Yvonne has also extensively researched the music and
songs of the old music halls of Poland. She has completed her Diploma of Polish Folkloric Choreographers and Dance Teachers (Poland) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Dance Studies at the Laban Centre for Movement and
Dance (London). For the last 10 years she has worked as resident Artistic Director for the Polish Folkloric Ensemble ‘Syrenka’ (Sydney).
Jerzy Scislowski - Music Director/Accordionist
Jerzy graduated with a Master of Arts in Music from Poland’s Wroclaw Academy of Music. He was artistic director of an award-winning folk choir for many years before becoming resident music director for ‘Syrenka’ – a position he
has enjoyed for 27 years.
Where: St Stephen’s Church Hall, 189 Church St (off King St) Newtown.
When: Friday 20th April
7.30-8.30pm basic elements
8.45pm-10.30pm progressive, choreographed and freeform dances.
Tickets: $25; $15 concession (cash only).
Wear: Shoes you can spin and turn in comfortably (such as character shoes). You might like to consider dressing up to celebrate the quirkiness of the old European Dance Halls.
Further information: Yvonne Kower. Mobile 0419 638 667.
yvonnekower@austarnet.com.au
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