Patrymonializacja, „UNESCOizacja” i polityka. Trajektorie tańca tradycyjnego w systemie ochrony niematerialnego dziedzictwa kulturowego

This article describes the relationship between the global protection system of intangible cultural heritage and practising dance at the regional and local levels. It is analysed on the example of traditional wedding dances from the region of Wielkopolska (Greater Poland), i.e. wiwat, przodek, and chodzony (równy). The aim of this analysis is to study UNESCO’s policy and the consequences of applying the protection system of intangible cultural heritage to traditional dance. The author points out that once the traditional dance is recognised as an element of cultural heritage the process of patrimonialisation starts. Consequently, the dance is incorporated in various socio-cultural processes that affect its meaning, form, and how it is practised. By referring to the concepts of patrimonialisation, intangible cultural heritage, and ‘UNESCOisation’, the text discusses the multi-context functioning and the diversified use of the traditional dances from Wielkopolska from three ethnographic regions: Biskupizna, Szamotuły, and Region Kozła (the Goat Region). The author argues that the varied trajectories in the patrimonialisation of the traditional dance can bring both positive effects (strengthening the local identity, raising the awareness of one’s own cultural heritage and its value) and possible risks (interference of external agencies, internal conflicts, symbolic and practical changes).