The Silesian Song and Dance Ensemble is composed of more than 100 men and women. It was established in 1952 and organized with state assistance by its artistic director, Stanisław Hadyna. The ensemble is named after the Silesia ("Śląsk") region and is based in Koszęcin. Śląsk originally focused on the folk traditions of Upper (Black) Silesia, Cieszyn Silesia, the songs of Opole, and the Beskid Mountains (Green Silesia). It was later expanded to include all Polish regions. The ensemble has performed more than 6,000 shows for over 20 million people worldwide. It has performed in the United States, Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Sweden, the Netherlands, China, Mexico, and many other countries, as well as the Vatican.