This December, Poznań’s seniors are invited to immerse themselves in the magic of Christmas at a special concert, Neighbourly Christmas Carols (Kolęda po sąsiedzku), organised by Teatr Muzyczny in Poznań. Scheduled for 20 December, the event will showcase Poland’s most beloved carols and pastorals, performed by celebrated vocalists and musicians. A free, joyous gathering for those aged 60 and above, it is an opportunity to celebrate the season, connect with others, and revel in the timeless beauty of music.
A Musical Journey Through the Holidays
The concert will highlight some of the most recognisable and cherished Polish carols, such as Silent Night (Cicha noc), When Christ is Born (Gdy się Chrystus rodzi), and The Shepherds Came to Bethlehem (Przybieżeli do Betlejem). These songs, rich in melody and meaning, will be performed by renowned soloists Anna Lasota, Anita Urban-Wieczorek, Patryk Kośnicki, and Maciej Ogórkiewicz, accompanied by musicians Jakub Kraszewski (piano), Adam Matykiewicz (soprano saxophone), and Andrzej Iwanowski (bass).
The performances during the Neighbourly Christmas Carols promise a rich emotional experience, blending music with poetry and festive surprises. It is an opportunity not only to celebrate Christmas but also to share in the collective warmth and joy of the season.
Teatr Muzyczny in Poznań
Teatr Muzyczny in Poznań is an iconic venue that has long been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural landscape. Established in 1956, the theatre has evolved into a vibrant hub of artistic expression, offering a diverse programme that includes musicals, operettas, and concerts. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to excellence, Teatr Muzyczny is a space where tradition meets innovation.
The Tradition of Christmas Carols in Poland
Carols, or kolędy, have been an integral part of Polish Christmas celebrations for centuries. Their origins date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, when they were introduced to Poland from Western Europe. Over time, Polish composers and poets infused these songs with local cultural elements, giving them a unique character. Today, carols range from solemn, religious hymns to lively pastorals that recount the nativity story with a folk-inspired flair.
In Poland, carol singing is more than a performance; it is a cherished communal tradition. Families, friends, and neighbours gather to sing carols together, often accompanied by instruments or simple clapping. This act of collective singing reinforces the themes of unity and joy that define the Christmas season. Events like Neighbourly Christmas Carols beautifully honour this tradition, bringing it to life for contemporary audiences.
A Special Gift for Everyone
The Neighbourly Christmas Carols concert is a heartfelt initiative designed to spread the joy of Christmas across Poznań’s community, with a special emphasis on its senior residents. For attendees aged 60 and above, the event offers free tickets as a gesture of inclusion and gratitude. However, the concert is open to all who wish to experience the magic of Polish Christmas traditions, with tickets available for purchase online through the Teatr Muzyczny website or at the theatre’s box office.
This event is more than just a musical experience—it is an opportunity to connect, share stories, and create lasting memories. For seniors, who may face isolation during the holidays, such initiatives provide a vital chance for social engagement and cultural enrichment. For the wider audience, it is an invitation to immerse in the shared warmth and traditions of the season.
How to Join the Celebration
The Neighbourly Christmas Carols concert will be held on 20 December at Teatr Muzyczny, with performances scheduled at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased directly via the theatre’s website or at its box office. For Poznań residents aged 60 and above, free tickets are available, offering a special opportunity to enjoy the concert at no cost.
Senior residents can reserve their complimentary tickets starting 12 December at 3:30 PM by contacting the Poznań Contact Office (tel. 61 646 33 44). When booking, participants will need to provide their name and details from their OK Poznań card or app. Reserved tickets must be collected on 16 December from the Centre for Senior Initiatives on Mielżyńskiego Street.
To ensure fairness, seniors may reserve up to two tickets per person. In the spirit of community, those who cannot attend are encouraged to pass their tickets on to other eligible individuals, ensuring the joy of the event reaches as many people as possible.
Let’s Listen to the Neighbourly Christmas Carols
Concerts like Neighbourly Christmas Carols highlight the importance of cultural accessibility and the role of the arts in fostering community. By celebrating Poland’s rich musical heritage, the event not only brings people together but also keeps traditions alive for future generations.
Teatr Muzyczny’s dedication to creating inclusive and meaningful experiences is a testament to the power of art to inspire, connect, and heal. For Poznań’s seniors, this concert is a gift that embodies the true spirit of Christmas: love, joy, and togetherness.
