The Haweya Folkloric Band, an affiliate of the Dar Al-Fonoun for Arts and Heritage Center, has successfully concluded a distinguished artistic tour across several Polish cities. This tour carried a profound message of Palestinian art and heritage to a broad European audience, fostered through cultural and humanitarian cooperation with the Palestinian community and international solidarity groups.
Highlights of the Tour:
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Krakow: The tour kicked off in the historic city of Krakow, where the opening performance at a leading cultural center drew a remarkable crowd of Palestinian expatriates and Polish supporters.
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Strasbourg (Cultural Venue): The band then moved to perform at the Cultural Theater and Convention Hall, attracting over 400 attendees in a powerful display of support for Palestinian culture.
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Poznan (Grand Finale): The final performance took place at the renowned Zamek International Cultural Centre. This exceptional show featured a collaboration with Polish artist Agata, blending Palestinian and Polish folklore in a beautiful display of cultural exchange.
Street Performances and Diplomacy:
Beyond official theaters, Haweya Band took their art to the vibrant streets of Krakow, engaging tourists and passersby with spontaneous Dabke performances. In coordination with the Palestinian Embassy, another significant show was held in the heart of Warsaw, further strengthening the visibility of Palestinian identity in European public spaces.
Cultural Exchange and Education:
The impact went beyond performances; the day following the finale, the band organized a Dabke workshop. More than 80 Polish youths and families participated, learning the fundamental steps of the traditional Palestinian dance in an interactive cultural experience.
Collaborative Support:
The tour was coordinated by the Palestinian artist residing in Poland, Nidal Kalboneh, who also participated as an Oud player. The troupe consisted of 12 to 15 members, including ten dancers, Yargul and Keyboard players, and a traditional folk singer.
The logistical and field arrangements were made through the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and in full coordination with the Embassy of the State of Palestine in Poland. The tour was generously funded by Palestinian businessman Dr. Abdel Qader Al-Mattar, with additional support from solidarity groups in Poland.
(934) ‘Huwiya’ Folk Group – Palestinian Cultural Evening – YouTube
