Polish Dance Theatre In Sweden (2003)

11th of December 2003 at 7 p.m. we were driving from the centre of Haernoesand to the hotel by public bus. It was the last one and almost empty bus. We were driving through huge area, passing small, nearly identical houses with Advent candles at the windows. I have tried to find some pedestrians without success. That caused feeling of sadness because Bergman's wisdom disappeared.

At the time when the whole Europe is vibrant with life, heroes of "Silence" and "Persona" play their "scenes from the marriages" closed in a small, inside spaces. It does not come out any scream or whisper from those rooms.

North of Sweden is a country for strong men. We have met in a restaurant Croat. First of all he asked us when we came to Sweden and if we had already dejection. In fact, it is easy to be depressed when it is morning twilight at the time of breakfast, and about 2 p.m. it is dusk and moon on the sky. It begins clear why Swedish cultivate so much Saint Lucia. Saint's Lucia light is everywhere - at the windows, in front of the houses, in gardens, etc.

We have spent almost one week at the north of Sweden . Apparently it is not a long distance between our neighbourhood countries. But we have travelled through out thousands of kilometres with six flights. We have eaten barrels of famous, Swedish herrings. We have taken part in a celebration of Saint's Lucia Day with all traditional accents (e.g. Angel's songs). On the hill with a sea - view, we have felt frosty, northern day and boundless sea - space. We have met wonderful people, helpful and competent organisers. We have got in touch with NorrDans group and began our friendship. Now, we have plans to develop our co-operation with NorrDans.

Finally, we have performed in Umea and Haernoesand in atmosphere from the south of Italy. Enthusiasm of the audience and warm, standing ovation did not suit to Bergman's climates. Maybe Swedish see from time to time Fellini's films.

Jagoda Ignaczak