The decision has led to a divided response from Polish artists, including actors and musicians planning concerts that day.
Despite the national mourning, some theaters in Warsaw have opted not to cancel performances. In certain venues, the audience will observe a moment of silence to commemorate the late pope.
Szczepkowska’s critique: National mourning contradicts secular values
Joanna Szczepkowska, one of Poland’s most respected actresses, was among the first public figures to voice strong opposition to the state’s intervention in the cultural calendar of a secular society following the announcement of national mourning for the funeral of a religious leader.
Szczepkowska, who is well-known for her iconic declaration marking the end of communism in Poland, has now turned her attention to this issue. She argues that national mourning should be reserved for tragedies that deeply affect the entire nation. “National mourning is something that shakes the whole nation, a tragedy with which the community identifies as a nation,” she said.
Bez względu na to ile tu stracę sympatii: żałoba narodowa to coś, co wstrząsa całym narodem , tragedia, z którą...
Opublikowany przez Joannę Szczepkowską Wtorek, 22 kwietnia 2025
The actress believes it is inappropriate to impose mourning for the death of a leader of a specific religion, as it does not reflect the collective grief of the Polish population.
She also contends that the decision contradicts Poland's constitution, which ensures the separation of church and state. “Public authorities in the Republic of Poland maintain neutrality in religious, philosophical, and worldview matters,” according to Article 25 of the Polish Constitution.
Kwiat Jabłoni concert to proceed with moment of silence
Meanwhile, the popular Polish band Kwiat Jabłoni, beloved by the country's youth, has confirmed that they will not cancel their concert scheduled for Saturday.
The band announced that both musicians and fans will honor the national mourning with a moment of silence before performing a special song dedicated to the occasion. The concert will take place at the TAURON Arena in Kraków.
Koncert Kwiat Jabłoni nie został odwołany. Zapraszamy w sobotę do TAURON Areny Kraków. Muzycy i fani zespołu żałobę narodową uczczą minutą ciszy przed specjalnie wybraną piosenką podczas koncertu.
Opublikowany przez TAURON Arena Kraków Środa, 23 kwietnia 2025
PM Tusk reschedules key event in response to national mourning
In light of the national mourning, Prime Minister Donald Tusk has announced that the planned celebrations for the Millennium of the Polish Crown in Warsaw will now take place on Sunday instead of Saturday. Tusk, who signed the presidential decree for the national mourning, confirmed the change.
What does national mourning in Poland involve?
The decision to declare national mourning does not lead to a complete suspension of cultural and public events. The primary change is that national flags will be lowered to half-mast at government offices, in line with legal requirements. While some cultural events, such as concerts and performances, will continue, they may include moments of silence to honor the pope.
The National Opera in Warsaw has canceled its scheduled performances, while other theaters, like Teatr Powszechny, have decided to proceed with their shows, particularly those of a more reflective nature.
[EDIT] Premiera została przeniesiona na 3 czerwca na godzinę 19.00. Istnieje możliwość wymiany biletów na nowy termin...
Opublikowany przez Teatr Wielki - Opera Narodowa Środa, 23 kwietnia 2025
The national mourning decision does not impose strict legal restrictions on cultural or sporting events, leaving individual organizers to determine whether to proceed with their planned activities. However, it is expected that the tone of these events will shift toward reflection rather than entertainment.
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Source: IAR/PAP/facebook.com/joanna.szczepkowska53/operanarodowa/TAURONArenaKrakow/X/@PremierRP