Beloved Polish Cabaret Star Joanna Kołaczkowska Dies at 59

The vibrant Polish cabaret scene mourns the loss of a seminal figure. Joanna Kołaczkowska, a celebrated actress, songwriter, and radio personality, passed away on July 17, 2025, at the age of 59. For thirty years, she was a driving force, instrumental in shaping iconic Polish cabaret troupes.

Farewell to a Smiling Icon

Kabaret Hrabi, her long-time colleagues, announced funeral arrangements, emphasizing a desire for a farewell that honored her spirit. “Beloved, we know that many of you would like to say goodbye to Asia – your own way, with a smile and emotion, as if she wanted,” the group stated in a moving tribute. The funeral is scheduled for Monday, July 28, 2025, in Warsaw.

Service Details and Charitable Wishes

The funeral mass will be held at 11:00 AM at the Church of St. Karol Boromeusz, located at ul. Powązkowska 14. Following the mass, a secular farewell ceremony will commence at 12:30 PM in the Ceremonial Hall of the Military Cemetery in Powązki, at ul. Powązkowska 43/45.

“Asia did not like pathos and wreaths.”

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that attendees honor her wishes by supporting the Avalon Foundation, an organization dedicated to direct assistance for disabled individuals. Donations can be made to account number 62 1600 1286 0003 0031 8642 6001, with the payment title “Cugier, 9392.” A collection box and QR code for direct transfers will also be available at the ceremony.

The family has also expressed a heartfelt plea for privacy during the ceremonies. “The Asia family is very asking not to make condolences during the ceremony,” they noted. “All good thoughts and presence are a huge support for them. They feel your love and are deeply grateful for it.”

Kołaczkowska was a cornerstone of the Polish entertainment landscape, co-founding influential cabaret groups such as Pocztówka z Afganistanu, yoy, and Hrabi. Her passing leaves a void in the artistic community, particularly in a sector that saw a 15% decline in live performances during the pandemic, according to a recent report by the National Centre for Culture (Raport o stanie kultury polskiej 2021).