Day 3 - July 7th - By Dom

Today was the long-awaited day, our first big concert in Poland.  We started the day with a quick breakfast and a tough 4 to 5 hour practice.  Once we got on stage to block our places, we danced each of our dances again to see how they would look.  Nevertheless, this led to a state in which we were bathed in sweat and extremely tired.  Yet in true Lowiczanie fashion, we pulled through.  

First we started with a meal of pizza, and then stocked up on energy drinks in bulk.  Our director used a little bit of free time to get her toenails pretty so that the insides of her boots were happy.  We toughed it out and got on stage.  Luckily, as is usually the case, our energy made for an amazing show.  This energy was merely a reciprocation of the effusive emotions of the audience, who seemed so proud that we had traveled over an ocean to perform for them.  Also, they were greatly pleased that we had brought American dances, bursting into thunderous applause at the very sight of our costumes, complete with suspenders, a red bow tie, and spats.  

Although it was a grueling day, people still maintained a sense of humor.  When Lowiczanie boys received their bowties and suspenders from the Lajkonik group, they decided to play a little prank.  All the men put on their suspenders and bowties under their shirt, and when a signal was given, they whipped off their shirts and started dancing like Chippendales' on the bus.  This was very well received by the female members of the group.  Sadly, the male dancers were not tipped.

Afterwards it was time to celebrate.  First we met with our adoring fans, and some of the boys in the group took it upon themselves to make a couple little girls' day by picking them up and taking pictures with them.  Little grandmas were also particularly impressed with the group, and mentioned that in more than a few words.  Later at home, with a campfire and good company, some people stayed up till the sky was lighting up with the first light of dawn to reward a job well done.  Don't worry, due to Poland's northern latitude, dawn starts to be seen as early as 2:30 AM here.

- Dom