In Poland, before the holidays, cubs, scouts and guides meet up to start the summer together. It’s called the ‘Departure for camps’. An important Holy Mass and gathering, summing up the year’s work. Every unit- cub team, scout team, patrol – is given a special candle, which is used during the important events of a units camp or route. Parents, family and friends all come to this event. Everyone can feel the joy of upcoming adventures.
This year, it all took place on the 15th of June. There was a surprise element: a theatrical performance. A show called “To these green meadows…” (about the preparations, see here)
The show was based on the history of Poland – starting with Poland’s christening in the year 996, ending with the times after the 2nd World War. Poland was shown in all its glory: a country rooted in Christianity.
“This show was as it should be, natural, youthful and fresh.” – writes on his blog Zbigniew Korba, past National Commissioner, father of five kids – humble funds, great creativity and a good choice of topics, amazing set design, lots of great scenes, the commitment and seriousness of the actors, brilliant music which built up not only the atmosphere, but was also an actor by itself”.
There were almost 200 actors – guides and scouts from Warsaw, but involved in the performance were a lot more people. Stage set, sound, technical help, script, music – the running of the backstage, not in the least less important.
This is the first of such events of Scouts of Europe in Poland – a big challenge, but also a great opportunity to develop good expression which is a trademark of the Scouts of Europe. There are already plans for more performances… We’re waiting!