Interview with Zbignew St. Zasada, organizer of IDO European HipHop & Breaking Championships 2024

Read the exclusive interview with one and only Mr. Zbigniew St. Zasada. As the mastermind behind the upcoming IDO European Championships in Żnin 2024, Mr. Zasada’s contributions to the dance community are nothing short of monumental.

Mr. Zasada holds numerous prestigious positions, including President of the International Dance Organization in Poland and President of the Polish Dance Union. His leadership extends to being a Supervisor, Chairman, and Judge for the IDO, as well as serving multiple times as the Team Captain of the Polish IDO Team.

A pivotal figure in Polish dance, Mr. Zasada is not only a leader but also a visionary founder of the Polish Dance Union.

Let's delve into the achievements and future plans of this remarkable individual who has dedicated his life to the art and promotion of dance.

1. What to expect from the city where you are organizing the IDO competition? (more about the best features regarding the competition ex. amazing hall, shopping,
sightseeing, etc.)
Organizing the IDO European Championships in Arche Cukrownia Żnin, participants and visitors can anticipate a blend of modern amenities, historical charm, and rich cultural experiences. Here’s what to expect from Żnin and the selected venue:
A venue that stands out for its historical significance, having been transformed from a sugar factory into a modern facility. It combines the charm of its past with contemporary amenities necessary for hosting a high-standard dance competition. Its unique ambience and architectural beauty add an unforgettable backdrop to the event.

On-site accommodation at Arche Cukrownia Żnin provides convenience and comfort for participants and visitors, ranging from luxurious to budget-friendly options. The venue offers diverse dining experiences with restaurants serving traditional Polish cuisine and international dishes, alongside leisure facilities for relaxation and unwinding such as spa services, fitness centres, or beautifully landscaped areas for a peaceful retreat. You can relax on the shore of the lake or in the swimming pool. Żnin’s architecture and historic sites offer glimpses into the past, enriching visitors' experiences. The surrounding areas are known for their scenic lakes and nature reserves, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation. Museums and cultural exhibitions within Żnin and at Arche Cukrownia Żnin itself provide opportunities for cultural exchange and learning. Shopping and Local Crafts Żnin and its vicinity boast markets and boutiques where visitors can find unique souvenirs, traditional Polish pottery, and textiles.
For those seeking a more contemporary shopping experience, Żnin offers various options to cater to all preferences.

Organizing the IDO European Championships in Żnin, particularly at Arche Cukrownia Żnin, promises an enriching experience that combines the thrill of the international dance competition with the opportunity to explore Polish culture, history, and natural beauty. Participants and visitors will enjoy a comprehensive experience that extends beyond the competition, making their visit memorable and enjoyable.

2.Can you share some background about you and your experience in IDO and IDO organizing competitions? How would you describe yourself in 5 words?
The Polish Dance Union was established in 2011, and unifies around 80 dance clubs across Poland, overseeing modern dance movements and various disciplines. As a member of the International Dance Organization, Polish Dance Union aligns with IDO standards, fostering the growth of dancers, coaches, and judges through training and organizing tournaments under its and IDO's patronage. Our organizing team is comprised of three dedicated individuals: Zbigniew St. Zasada, Zofia Szpila-Pojasek, and Monika Paruch. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for dance, ensuring each competition is a memorable and smoothly run event.

Zbigniew St. Zasada - ORGANIZER OF IDO EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS ŻNIN 2024
A pivotal figure in Polish dance, holds leadership roles in both Polish Dance Union and owner of one of the biggest dance school in Poland. The President of the International Dance Organization in Poland and President of the Polish Dance Union. Supervisor IDO, Chairman IDO, Judge IDO, Team Captain of the Polish IDO Team many times. One of the founders of the Polish Dance Union. Organizer of several hundred dance tournaments in Poland on a World, European, national and regional scale.

Zofia Szpila-Pojasek - International Communication Manager IDO EC Żnin 2024
Woman with a rich background as an Event Manager, Fundraising Specialist, and Finance Analyst, serves as the International Communication Manager for the event in Żnin. Her expertise has significantly contributed to the success of various championships, including IDO World, European and National Championships in diverse dance styles and EUSA Championships. Zofia's multifaceted roles across events from 2014 to 2024 underline her versatile skill set and pivotal role in orchestrating major dance competitions. She is also Member of the Board of Polish Dance Union.

Monika Paruch - Stage & Competition Office Manager
She has been involved in the dance world since she was 9 years old. Dancer, participant of many dance tournaments. Since 2013, she has been a moderator at many dance tournaments and she is an Official Polish Dance Union Moderator. From 2023, Organizational Manager of the European, World and National Championships, previously gaining experience working in various positions during national and international dance events. In Żnin he will be the Stage & Competition Office Manager. The team managed by Monika will be responsible for the smooth running of the event.

How would you describe yourself in 5 words?
In our organization, we have people who are:
• creative
• well-organized
• ambitious
• open mind
• fond of challenges

3.What inspired you to become an organizer of the IDO competition, and how did you get started in this role?
The inspiration to become an organizer of the IDO competition stemmed from a passion for promoting dance sport and its educational values, alongside a desire to foster the development of dancers, coaches, and judges in line with IDO standards. Getting started in this role was a natural progression, driven by the ambition to elevate dance sport's profile in Poland and internationally, facilitated through the foundation and leadership within key organizations such as the Polish Dance Union and the Akademia Artystyczna Artia and Sport-Dance Club, which have been instrumental in organizing national and international level competitions.

4.For dancers interested in participating, can you give us some more information to help them prepare for and make the most of the competition experience? What to expect from your competition?
For dancers interested in the IDO Hip Hop Battle & Breaking and IDO Hip Hop and Popping European Championships, it's crucial to hone your skills in these specific styles, focusing on creativity, technique, and musicality. Expect a competitive environment that values innovation and expression, offering opportunities to engage with top-tier talent from across Europe. Prepare to showcase your best moves, absorb diverse styles, and take advantage of the workshops and networking opportunities to elevate your dance journey.

5.How do you handle logistical aspects, such as venue selection, scheduling, and participant registration, to ensure a smooth and successful event?
To ensure a smooth and successful IDO European Championships, we meticulously plan logistical aspects.
There will be:
- an onsite registration office for team captains
- rehearsal areas,
- designated changing rooms,
- distinct spectator and dancer zones.
Emphasizing convenience and a comprehensive experience, we recommend
accommodation at Arche Cukrownia Żnin, centralizing the dancing arena, dining, relaxation facilities, swimming pool, and lake access. This approach not only simplifies logistics for participants but also enriches their competition journey, offering a seamless blend of performance, rest, and leisure in a connected, supportive environment. For the IDO European Championships, convenient travel and transfer options are available from major cities to the venue, with varying distances and travel times. To ensure seamless transportation, our partner offers transfer services from airports and hotels with a reservation system in place. Their fleet accommodates different group sizes with per-kilometer pricing. Reservations for these services should be made via email, ensuring your transportation needs are met efficiently.

6.What challenges do you typically face when organizing a competition, and how do you overcome them?
Organizing a competition like the IDO European Championships involves addressing challenges such as accommodation, food, and transportation. For accommodation, we leverage Arche Cukrownia Żnin, ensuring participants have comfortable, on-site lodging close to all event activities. Food availability is managed by providing numerous on-site dining options through Arche Cukrownia Żnin, catering to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. For transfers, detailed information is accessible on our website, and for any on-site inquiries, our highly experienced organizing team is prepared to assist, ensuring smooth operation and a positive experience for all involved.

7.What qualities do you believe are essential for a successful competition organizer?
A successful competition organizer should possess adaptability, strong communication, attention to detail, leadership, and problem-solving skills. These qualities ensure the smooth execution of events, effective team coordination, and the ability to address any challenges that arise. With our extensive experience in organizing events, we are confident in our ability to manage everything efficiently, making each competition a memorable and seamless experience for all participants.

8.Can you tell us about a particularly memorable or challenging competition that you have organized in the past?
We would like to mention three, not the only one, international events.
The first one was IDO WORLD HIPHOP, ELECTRIC BOOGIE AND BREAK DANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS which was organized in 2009 in Kalisz. It was the first such big international IDO event in Poland, and we were surprised that there were around 3400 from 34 nations that were interested in coming to Poland.
The second were IDO EUROPEAN HIP HOP, BREAK DANCE AND ELECTRIC BOOGIE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2017 Wałbrzych. At that event were 2927 dancers from 19 countries. What’s interesting, is that there were more dancers at our event than participants who took part in WORLD GAMES that were in Wrocław at the same time.
And the last, and one of the most memorable events were:
IDO EUROPEAN HIP HOP BATTLE AND BREAK DANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS & IDO EUROPEAN HIP HOP AND ELECTRIC BOOGIE CHAMPIONSHIPS in Brzeg Dolny in 2021. There were 1334 dancers from 12, you can think – not so big number, but you have to know that it was IDO's first Championships following a total COVID-19 lockdown. The sheer joy and excitement from dancers, fans, and officials at being able to gather and dance together again were palpable. We often receive messages expressing gratitude and happiness from participants, but the energy and satisfaction at this event truly surpassed all expectations. It wasn’t just a dance competition; it was a celebration of community and passion reignited, showcasing the incredible spirit that dance can bring into people’s lives.

9. Can you share your personal favourite memory or performance from past IDO championships?
On IDO EUROPEAN HIP HOP, BREAK DANCE AND ELECTRIC BOOGIE
CHAMPIONSHIPS 2017 Wałbrzych, we have introduced an outdoor fan zone for the first time, enhancing the communal celebration of dance. The vivid memory of the Dutch team celebrating their victories together, gathered under a large screen, epitomizes the joy and unity that dance competitions foster. This innovation not only celebrated the spirit of competition but also the shared passion and camaraderie among participants and spectators alike.

10. For the end please share with us your message to the IDO dance community.
To our cherished IDO dance community, our message is one of unity, passion, and resilience. Dance transcends boundaries, bringing us together to celebrate artistry and hard work. As we navigate challenges and celebrate victories, let's continue to support and inspire one another. Remember, every step on the dance floor is a step towards achieving our collective dreams. Let's keep the energy alive, cherish every moment of connection, and dance with hearts full of joy and determination.

Combine dancing competition and relaxation in this beautiful Polish summer!

SEE YOU IN POLAND!