Her voice a husky whisper. That’s how many remember Hanka Bielicka. This is where her story ends. Here in Warsaw. At Powązki Cemetery.
Hanka Bielicka a name synonymous with Polish cabaret and film. She was born far from here in Kononovka in 1915. That’s in present-day Ukraine. A remarkable journey brought her to Warsaw.
She was more than just an actress and singer. She was a cultural icon. She studied Romanistics at Warsaw University. Then she honed her craft at the Aleksander Zelwerowicz Theatre Academy. She debuted in 1939. It was at the Pohulanka Theatre in Vilnius. During the war she worked with them.
After the war she graced numerous Polish stages. These included the Dramatic Theatre in Białystok and the Cameral Theatre in Łódź. But her true breakthrough was cabaret. She met Bogdan Brzeziński. He crafted the unforgettable character Dziunia Pietruńska especially for her. Dziunia’s witty commentaries on life captivated audiences. For 25 years she was featured on Polish Radio. Her segment was called Podwieczorek przy mikrofonie. It translates as Afternoon Tea with the Microphone.
Bielicka’s voice was unique. Friends called it the most beautiful hoarseness in the world. Her extravagant hats were as legendary as her performances. She appeared in over 20 films and television productions. Often she was in supporting roles. Her voice was deemed unsuitable for leading roles in films.
Tragically she died on March 9 2006. It was after surgery for an aortic aneurysm. She never regained consciousness. Her final television appearance was just a week before her death. It was on the Szymon Majewski Show.
Here at her family tomb in Powązki Cemetery. Her legacy lives on. Through her unforgettable performances and her iconic character Dziunia. Her memory echoes still. A true star of Polish entertainment. A testament to her enduring spirit. A woman who touched countless hearts. Remember Hanka Bielicka.