Polonaise is a group dance that has a sublime and joyful character.
The dance can be performed by a few or several hundred pairs. Initially, the first pair proposed a trajectory for the procession. Taking a step forward and bending one leg is the basic step, which resembles marching. Polonaise is deeply rooted in Polish culture, and its value is widely acknowledged. A Polonaise dance tradition dates back to the 18th century, but the dance was already known as the "walk" in the 16th century. Today, Polonaise is inextricably linked to prom. The dance is often performed at weddings, New Year's Eve celebrations, and carnival balls.
As a living tradition, dancing the Polonaise is commonly passed down from generation to generation. This is done in families, schools, educational institutions, dance groups, local communities, and informal groups that are formed spontaneously when life's special events are celebrated. The Polonaise's widespread presence in culture, literature, music, and film enhances the general understanding of dance.
Polonaise is inextricably linked to values like solidarity, equality, hope, and optimism. Through the inscription of the element on Representative List, the importance of ICH would be raised and respect for its manifestations would follow. In today's society, polonaises are passed down through families, schools, cultural centers, dance groups, and non-governmental organizations. Due to its importance in the life of local communities, polonaise, and accompanying ceremonies, and celebrations, are transmitted mostly through active participation in collective activities.
In 2016, the National Institute of Music and Dance published instructional materials and tutorials. To celebrate International Dance Day in 2019, an album WeDance the Polonaise was donated free of charge to schools as part of the WeDance campaign. Audiovisual materials available in digital form have gained prominence in recent years. In the past decade, there have also been a number of workshops and meetings for teachers across Poland. As a result of numerous research activities, articles, teaching methodologies, and textbooks were published in support of educational and popularization efforts. A grant program and artistic scholarships are available for various grassroots initiatives to support safeguarding activities for ICH in Poland.
Throughout Poland, the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage supports local activities through ministerial programs. In addition to providing substantive and expert support, the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage also initiates and conducts systemic and financial support. This includes the National Institute of Music and Dance, the National Institute of Cultural Heritage, the National Commission for UNESCO, and the Council for Intangible Cultural Heritage.