When the Waves Are Calm Again

After a heroic journey across the ocean of dreams, it’s time to come back to calmer waters. Participants in the 39th International Sea Song Festival “Shanties” (20-23 February), led by the motto “Returning to the lakes”, put down anchors at three landlocked ports. The inaugural evening is hosted by Radio Kraków with a concert of ballads at the intimate studio S-5. Over the following days, the festival makes itself at home at Kijów Cinema. Klang and Zejman & Garkumpel present a concert for kids, while adults enjoy Jerzy Porębski, Andrzej Korycki, Stare Dzwony (celebrating their 40th anniversary!), Ryczące Dwudziestki, The Nierobbers and the “Zawisza Czarny” Male Shanty Choir. Musicians also pay homage to Captain Andrzej Mendygrał who has gone to hoist the sails in heaven last year. The finale concert features something for all seadogs: we will hear working songs, lively folk and sailors’ ballads.

Tireless voyagers can rest their weary bones at Stary Port, hosting shanty sessions every evening. There will be the traditional communal singing session at the Main Market Square, as well as exhibitions, film screenings and a sailing equipment fair. (Bartosz Suchecki, “Karnet”)