Marek Kuchciński, Marsal of the Sejm in the Polish Parliament

I wish to express congratulations to the whole Team of Wanda Siemaszkowa Theatre in Rzeszów and to the Partners from abroad on the excellent initiative to organise the First edition of TRANS/MISJE International Festival of Arts.

I was immensely satisfied to receive information on another important cultural event initiated during the year of 100th Anniversary of Polish Independence. In this context I am pleased with the international dimension of the Festival, since – as you fittingly point out, other nations of Central and Eastern Europe also gained independence one hundred years ago. While admiring remarkable works of art, we can together celebrate the revival of our Homelands. As a consequence we build up our relations, and the desire to strengthen the central and eastern part of Europe not only in terms of politics, economy and infrastructure but also in the cultural and spiritual dimensions.

As the Marshal of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland, I consistently seek to strengthen the parliamentary ties between the countries of the Visegrád Group, or more broadly Central and Eastern Europe. In my opinion our nations are strongly connected by culture and cultural identity. Therefore, I am particularly proud of the fact that the Festival is another international cultural initiative held in Podkarpackie, the region I come from.

I hope the first edition of TRANS/MISJE Festival, held in Rzeszów, will be a great success and it will provide a start for a new international theatrical tradition. By reference to Stanisław Wyspiański’s famous words, let me say: I can see the Festival as a momentous event!

I am sending my regards.
Marek Kuchciński
Marshal of the Sejm
of the Republic of Poland