Meet Matthew Schmit – Inspiring Through the Art and Rhythms of Polish Dance

The Eastern European Folk Festival is thrilled to welcome Matthew Schmit, a dynamic artist, cultural leader, and passionate ambassador of Polish folk dance.

Matthew has been dancing since the age of six, and for the past decade, he has served as the artistic director of the Lajkonik Polish Folk Ensemble, shaping it into a group recognized both nationally and internationally. His deep knowledge spans a wide range of Polish regions, including Rzeszów, Przeworsk, Łowicz, Opoczno, Nowy Sącz, Podlasie, Spisz, Eastern Kraków, Żywiec, and Cieszyn—each with its own unique movement style, musicality, and cultural story.

What truly sets Matthew apart is his commitment to ethnographic authenticity. Rather than learning solely from secondary sources, he has trained directly with local experts in Poland, immersing himself in the living traditions of each region. This dedication ensures that every step, gesture, and rhythm he teaches carries the spirit of its origin.

A Leader in Culture and Community

Beyond the stage, Matthew has made a meaningful impact within both the Polish and broader folklife communities in Arizona. His contributions include:

• Serving as Treasurer of the Polish Folk Dance Association of the Americas

• Being recognized as a “Young Polish Leader” by the Polish Consul General in Los Angeles and the Polish American Congress.

• Receiving the prestigious Southwest Folklife Alliance Master-Apprentice Award alongside his mother and Lajkonik founder, Joanna Schmit

Under his leadership, Lajkonik has performed across the United States—including Seattle, Portland, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Houston—and has proudly represented Arizona four times at the International Festival of Polish Folk Dance Groups in Rzeszów, Poland. Notably, they were the first group from Arizona ever invited to this renowned festival.

Workshop Spotlight: Czardasz from Spisz

At this year’s festival, Matthew will guide participants through a vibrant Czardasz from the Spisz region—a culturally rich area that spans both Poland and Slovakia.

This dance reflects a fascinating blend of influences, shaped by Spisz’s proximity to the Polish highlands and its history within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The Czardasz itself is a captivating partner dance that begins with a slow, expressive section and builds into a fast, exhilarating finish.

Expect:

• Powerful stomping rhythms

• Energetic spins

• Playful, intricate footwork

• A dynamic connection between partners guided by the music

It’s a dance that invites both structure and spontaneity—perfect for dancers who love musicality, storytelling, and connection.

Don’t Miss This Experience

Whether you are new to Eastern European dance or an experienced performer, Matthew brings a rare combination of expert knowledge, cultural depth, and infectious enthusiasm to every class.

Join us for this unforgettable workshop and experience the energy, history, and joy of Polish folk dance—brought to life by one of its most dedicated ambassadors.

You can find more information about the Lajkonik Polish Folk Ensemble here: https://lajkoniktucson.com/