16 Sep

THE HUNGARIAN STATE FOLK ENSEMBLE DANCING OVER TO THE AMERICAN CONTINENT

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ROLLINGING IN BUDAPEST …  NOW IN SPIRIT  … ROLLING  IN AMERICA! 

HERALD NEWS ACROSS THE OCEAN TO INFORM THE LOCALS OF THE “HSFE” – THE HUNGARIAN STATE FOLK ENSEMBLE TOUR ON THE AMERICAN CONTINENT!

When reading this latest update, the  HSFE  The Hungarian State Folk Ensemble has already flew over to the United States of America and have had their 1st U.S. performance. The 3 months North American tour began on Sunday, 15. September, 2013 in California at the Marin Center in San Rafael, and Canada. A little background about the U.S. tour of  the HSFE … Within a short time the MÁNE group is back in States for the second occasion. In 2007 they were performing with their show titled: „Hungarian Concerto”. Ninety thousand individuals were interested to pay a visit to their show, At the time being, the American concert promoter company had already indicated they would like to have sometime in the future the group back again.

The time has come with already planned 70 performances in the United States of America from East-to-West …  North to South and Canada.

The Hungarian Rhapsody is deeply devoted to the Hungarian folk music, rooted in the nineteenth century, This is full of character, with nothing unmistakable new genre that origins back-and-forth to playing folk and art music sidelines. It had powerful meaning to the Hungarian and non-Hungarian culture which influenced creators such as Brahms, Berlioz and Liszt. The „Hungarian Rhapsody” preformance is based on the marks of the genre itself, drawing on the tradition, taking inspiration to create its own unique dance rhapsody. The genre is characterized by Rhapsody, as a distraction, emotions, thoughts passionate surge of freedom of expression. Successive changes dynamically appear in images of the Hungarian peasant tradition of churning diversity. Most probably the audience will hold their breath when seeing the men at the acrobatics dances and as well, recognize the soft lyrical emotion move in the women dances, not to mention the virtuosity at the couple of dances. The beautiful melodies of folk culture can be visioned in their dance plays. The list of the performances dates and the scenes are wide, yet  there maybe folks  who will not be able to see the NÁNE in person at their city, therefore see below  the collected venues where they will show up and hopefully  for those of interest still will have enough time to go and have a little bit  of pleasure, an evening out at the traditional Hungarian moody dancer show.

The  dance theater titled „Hungarian Phapsody” will be on the road  and heading to these venues:

Tuesday, 17. September  – 7.30 p.m. Seaside, California – World Theater Thursday, 19. September – 7 p.m. Livermore, California – Bankhead Theater, Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center Friday, 20. September – 7.30 p.m. Folsom, California Three Stages – Stage One,  Folsom Lake College Saturday, 21. September – 8 p.m.  Folsom, California Three Stages – Stage One,  Folsom Lake College Sunday, 22. September – 2 p.m. Folsom, California Three Stages – Stage One, Folsom Lake College Tuesday, 24. September – 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Downey, California – Downey Civic Theatre, 8435 Firestone Boulevard Thursday, 26. September – 8 p.m. Las Vegas, Nevada – Artemus Ham Concert Hall), University of Nevada at Las Vegas Friday, 27. September – 8 p.m. Glendora, California – Robert D. Haugh Performing Arts Center Saturday, 28. September – 8 p.m. Lancaster, California – Lancaster PAC Sunday, 29. September  San Diego, California – Copley Symphony Hall Monday, 30 September – 9.30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Palm Desert, California – McCallum Theatre Wednesday, 2. October  – 7 p.m.  Alto,  New Mexico – The Spencer Theater Thursday, 3. October – 7 p.m. Santa Fe, New Mexico – Lensic Theater Saturday, 5. October – 7.30 p.m.  Quincy, Illinois – Morrison Theater –  Quincy Junior High School Sunday, 6. October – 3 p.m. Poplar Bluff, Missouri – Tinnin Fine Arts Center Theatre – Three Rivers Community College Monday, 7. October – 7.30 p.m. Edmond, Oklahoma – Armstrong Auditorium – Herbert W Armstrong College Tuesday, 8. October – 7 p.m. Columbia, Missouri –  Jesse Auditorium  – University Of Missouri Thursday, 10. October – 7.30 p.m. Fort Worth, Texas – Nancy Lee & Perry R. Bass Performance Hall  Friday, 11. October 8 p.m. Houston, Texas – Jesse H Jones Center Saturday, 12. October – 8 p.m.  Overland Park, Kansas – Yardley Hall- Carlsen Center Sunday, 13. October 7 p.m.  Germantown, Tennessee – Germantown Performing Arts Center Tuesday, 15. October 7 p.m. Oxford, Mississippi – Ford Center for the Performing Arts (1160) University of Mississippi Thursday, 17. October – 7.30 p.m. Preforming Arts Center – Georgia Southern University Friday, 18. October – 6.30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Richmond, Virginia – Meeting the members of the group  7.30 show – Modlin Center for the Arts – Jepson Theater Saturday, 19. October – 7.15 p.m. Fairfax, Virginia – Talk with the member of the group – 8 p.m. show Center for the Arts Concert Hall, George Mason University Sunday, 20. October 15.15 p.m. Fairfax, Virginia –  Talk with the member of the group – 4 p.m. show Center for the Arts Concert Hall , George Mason University Monday, 21. October – 8 p.m  Englewood, New Jersey – Bergen PAC at the John Harms Center Wednesday, 23. October –  7 p.m. Champaign-Urbana, Illinois – Foellinger Great Hall , Krannert Center – University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Thursday, 24. October -10 a.m.  Cape Girardeau, Missouri – Krannert Center Bedell Performing Hall Southeast Missouri State Universit, Dept. of Theater and Dance Friday, 25. October – 8 p.m. Springfield, Illinois – Sangamon Auditorium , University of Illinois at Springfield Saturday, 26. October. 8 p.m.  Carmel, Indiana – The Palladium , Center for the Performing Arts Sunday, 27. October – 3 p.m. Clinton Township, Michigan – Macomb Center For Performing Arts Monday, 28. October – 7.30 p.m.  Greeneville, Tennessee – Niswonger Performing Arts Center Tuesday, 29. October – 7 p.m. Ashland, Kentucky – Paramount Arts Center Wednesday, 30. October- 7.30 p.m.  Zanesville, Ohio – Secrest Auditorium Friday, 1. November – 8 p.m.  Mamaroneck, New York – Emelin Theater  for the Performing Arts Saturday, 2. November – 3 p.m.  Albany, New York – Hart Theater ,Empire State Plaza Sunday, 3. November – 3 p.m. Philadelphia , Pennsylvania – Verizon Hall, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts Monday, 4. November – 7.30 p.m. Annapolis, Maryland – Alumni Hall, United States Naval Academy Thursday, 7. November – 8 p.m. Stamford, Connecticut – Palace Theater, Stamford Center for the Arts Friday, 8. November 8 p.m. –  Poughkeepsie, New York – Bardavon 1869 Opera House Saturday, 9. November – 3 p.m.  New Brunswick, New Jersey – State Theater Minday, 11. November – 7.30 p.m. Newport News , Virginia – Ferguson Center for the Arts, Christopher Newport University Tuesday, 12. November – 7.30 p.m. Frederick, Maryland – Weinberg Center for the Arts (1500) Thursday, 14. November – 7.30 p.m.  Providence, Rhode Island – Roberts Auditorium , Rhode Island College Friday, 15. November 8 p.m. Morristown, New Jersey – Community Theater, Mayo Arts Center Saturday, 16. November – 7 p.m. Manassas, Virginia – Talk with the member of the group – 8 p.m. show Merchant Hall, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Prince William Campus at Geo. Mason University Sunday, 17. November – 3 p.m. Bayside/Bronx, New York – Queensborough Community College Theater, Queensboro Community College – 8-p.m. show at Lehman Center for the Performing Arts Monday, 18. November – 8 p.m. Binghamton, New York – Concert Theater, Anderson Center for the Arts, Binghamton University Tuesday, 19. November – 7.30 p.m. Buffalo, New York – Main Stage, Center for the Arts, SUNY Buffalo Thursday, 21. November –  7.30 p.m. Cleveland, Ohio – State Theater, Playhouse Square Foundation Friday, 22. November – 8 p.m. Chicago, Illinois – Auditorium Theater Saturday, 23. November  – 8 p.m. Detroit, Michigan – Music Hall Center For Performing Arts Sunday, 24. November – 7.30 p.m. Welland, Ontario Canada – Dr. J. M. Ennis Auditorium , Centennial Secondary School Monday, 25. November – 8 p.m Toronto, Ontario Canada – Roy Thomson Hall Tuesday, 26. November – 8 p.m. Montreal, Quebec Canada – Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Place des Arts de Montréal Wednesday, 27. November – 8 p.m. Ottawa, Ontario Canada – Alongonquin College Commons Theater Thursday, 28. November – 7.30 p.m. Kingston, Ontario Canada – Grand Theater Friday, November – 10.30 a.m. Kingston, Ontario Canada Grand Theater Tuesday, 3. December  – 8 p.m. Boca Raton, Florida Century Village Theater at Boca Raton Wednesday, 4. December – 7 p.m. Fort Pierce, Florida Sunrise Theatre of the Performing Arts Thursday, 5. December – 10.30 a.m. Fort Pierce, Florida Sunrise Theatre of the Performing Arts – for students performances Friday, 6. December – 7.30 p.m. Orange Park, Florida Thrasher – Horne Center for the Arts St. Johns River Community College Sunday, 8. December – 2 p.m. Clearwater, Florida Ruth Eckerd Hall Richard B. Baumgardner Center for the Performing Arts Tuesday, 10 December – 8 p.m. West Palm Beach, Florida Century Village Theater at West Palm Beach Wednesday, 11. December –  8 p.m.  Pembroke Pines, Florida Century Village Theater at Pembroke Pines Friday, 13. December – 8 p.m. Sarasota, Florida Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Sunday, 15. December – 8 p.m.  West Palm Beach, Florida Alexander W. Dreyfoos, Jr. Concert Hall – Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

The show goes on with the  Hungarian State Folk Dance Ensemble’s choir and orchestra.

Update Aggie Reiter

Photos  József Lantai

12 Sep

HERALD NEWS … FIRST CHIMNEY CAKE FESTIVAL – BUDAPEST

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FIRST CHIMNEY CAKE FESTIVAL … BAKE YOURSELF YOUR OWN  CHIMNEY CAKE!

FROM FRIDAY TO SUNDAY

OCTOBER, 11-13. 2013.

DOWNTOWN AT THE CITY HALL PARK – BUDAPEST

Hungary is heading to the fall’s season of festivals. As a newcomer in the line of festivals, this year, there will be the 1st. Chimney Cake Festival to be held Downtown at the City Hall Park,  beside the Deák Ferenc Square, Budapest. In the late morning hours on a pouring rainy day the media representatives were invited to the Gundel’s garden at the Budapest Zo,  were the organizers announced their upcoming plans for the festival.  Ms. Tünde András said, quote: “There is so many festivals in Budapest and throughout Hungary,  yet no chimney cake festival has entered the world of festivals in Hungary. This was my dream and seems like my dream will come true by organizing the first chimney cake festival.”  Not only the wide variety in flavors of chimney cakes will be around, but the visitors who join the 3 days event may also learn how to prepare the traditional  chimney cake.   Also there will be chimney cakes in all size from  XL, L, M, S and XS “.  As far as planed, there will be a baking of 50 piece of chimney cake to set a new record” … so we were told by Gáspár Bálint, one of the founders of the Vitéz Kürtős  (Chimney Cake).

Just in brief about the birth of the „kürtőskalács” chimney cake  which has several stories of original. One of them is that when the Mongols were approaching Székelyföld (to-day in Transylvania). The locals from Budvár és Réz fled into caves to hide away from the Tatars. The Tatars thought by making the locals to starve they will come out of the caves. In the meantime, not only Transylvanians, but the Tartars also ran out of food. Then a wise Transylvanians woman scraped her rest of the flour, and formed a huge chimney cake  then baked it above the ash of the fire. Later placed it on a long chopper and showed, said to the Tartars, “Look how well we are living and you’re starving,” The Tartars were so devastated that they departed from the area.

Since then the chimney cake made its way to be one of the favorite Transylvanian delights. Way back it was unimaginable to have not on the table the chimney cake as a tradition food at religious festivals and weddings. In the past years it has become an everyday delight not only in the territory of Transylvania but throughout Hungary as well.

For the  soles music will not be missing beside preparing, tasting the chimney cakes with a wide programs.  Mr. László Járási, member of the Indygo band  told us, j they wrote a particular song for the occasion of the „Kürtőskalács” Chimney Cake, which will be presented at the festival on Friday, the first day of the festival.  In the evening the Sugarloaf and the Heaven Street Seven band will roll the live music. On Saturday, the X-Factor smokers:  Ms. Adel Csobot, Ms. Timea (Timi) Antal, Mr. Gergő Baricz will be on stage. The night show will end by the Cross Band with Ms. Ildikó Keresztes. During the daylight there will be puppet shows, magic shows, fire jugglers. In addition to the performances, on the final day, children’s programs and adult Hot Jazz Band, and the Balkán Fanatik group hits will fill the air.

The mood was excellent, especially good to be a bit by the fire, as the ash warmed up ourselves on a cold and rainy autumn morning .

By participating at the press gathering, brought a  true gastronomic delicacy!

Worthwhile to note the time and dates, to go for the  various flavors of the chimney cakes!

Click here to see how Timi  and  two lads from the Balkán Fanatic group baked their chimney cake:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvMpRKAgwis

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDnMvLFVPoU

Update , snaps, video by Aggie Reiter

6 Sep

BONBONETTI CONFECTIONERY COMPANY OPENED ITS NEW STORE IN BUDAPEST = MADE IN HUNGARY!

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The Bonbonetti has signed last year and  strategic agreement with the  World’s 15th  largest confectionery manufacturer, Roshen Confectionery Corporation to start with  the factory in Budapest with investments in technology and developments … these were the opening words by  Mr. Sándor Sánta, Bonbonetti Group CEO, President of the Association of the Hungarian Confectionery  at the press gathering  where he continued quote: “The year of 2013 is a significant year, because we have worked continuously to changing circumstances and market demands and to meet our customers. Here at our newly open store  we welcome  our consumers  locals, Hungarian sweets known significant foreign guests and the tourist who are just about to get acquainted with our usual high quality products along with unique offers and ongoing promotions.”

As we were told … Recently, many new locations opened in Budapest. The Bonbonetti wouldn’t wish to be absent from this high-spin. They were searching for a while looking for the right place where they can show the palette of their products for the domestic and foreign  “sweetcoholic” visitors at their shop.  They finally found a great venue chosen on the  Andrássy Boulevard  which begins at the Downtown area and  goes all the way to the Heroes’ Square. The newly opened very neet Bonbonetti brand store is on the corner of the Andrássy Blvd, and the Jókai Square. A wide range of extremely well-known chocolate names are  well, just to meet the eye arranged on the shelves . Also at the shop can be found the first to be seen, tasted decades ago, the “Tibi” chocolate on which generations have grown up.  Many European markets already well know the heavenly taste of one of the Hungaricum, the sour cherry soaked in brandy.  To stroll along the Andrássy Blvd. is also a good way of getting to know, gain experience of the Hungarian culture, with just a short  walk to-and-from the Opera House,  a range of museums, exhibition halls, and to look up high to see fine architechture, which all started to grow when the construction works began building the Andrássy Boulevard in 1872. BUT the Bonbonetti  products preceded, were available and as time went by to the  present  day since 1868. The Andrássy Boulevard is a World Heritage Site since 2002, so the Bonbonetti,  opened  its store on the right venue, where beside the historic and cultural values meet the pure Hungarian made sweets-for sweet lovers as well.

Beside the Bonbonetti chocos, some candies are the new features which can only be brought here at this store. There is a neet cellophane bag at each selection of sweeties and the customers can pick-and-pack  their chosen candies, milk, dark, white  based chocolates,  dragees filled with almond, raisins, peanuts, Hungarian nuts, jellies covered with choco, coconut, passion fruit, real fruit cream filled with pralines, cognac filled delights.

They have also came out with a new flavor, the Nostalgia “Nosztalgia)”within the filling of Christmas sweeties (in Hungarian called: “Szaloncukor”). This is a very special sweet within the Hungarian tradition, only for the season for Xmas not just for decorating the Xmas tree but to pinch and eat one-or-two from the tree when nobody sees you.  This special delight this time came out with a new filling: almond, orange cream covered by chocolate. You cannot guess what it taste, you have to give it a try. The list is long, so here just was to give a picture of a couple of flavor to meet at the store.

Wish to make it clear in case of any misunderstanding …  the Bonbonetti  word may sound for many as an Italian word. Nothing to do with the Italian sweets. The Bonbonetti  brand stands for  100% of Hungarian sweets. In other words …

BONBONETTI sweets are equal to  MADE IN HUNGARY!

Update, snaps Aggie Reiter

3 Sep

HAPPY 190th BIRTHDAY TO THE NATIONAL THEATER MISKOLC – HUNGARY

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The National Theater of Miskolc was Hungary’s first indoor theater spoken the language of the country.

Where …  1. Déryné Street – Miskolc.

Just about 190 years ago on August, 24. 1823 opened its doors to the public. To honor this illustrious anniversary, the Miskolc National Theater held a full-day unforgettable „190th YEAR BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION” on Saturday, September 1. 2013. The program started as the clock hit the 10 a.m. with fanfare in the windows around the Déryné park and the countdown by tens went from 190 to open the celebration to the National Theater of Miskolc 190 years of existence. Then step-by-step at the theater’s entrance platform theater members came and gave a short performance and roles of the company’s past and recent repertoire. Yet, this time the comedy was not missing in their show-off.

As the clock hit the 10 a.m. fanfare in the windows around the Déryné park and the countdown by tens went from 190 to open the celebration to the National Theater of Miskolc 190 years of existence.

Then step-by-step at the theater’s entrance platform artist members came and gave a short performance of their past and recent plays. At first, the  opening sentence was Tatars in Hungary, by Attila Béres.

One of the most attractive scene was brought by the play of Shakespeare “To be or not to be” … a’la 6 great monologue clash, directed by Csaba Kiss.

Back-in-time with the remembering actress and actor Ms. Éva Ruttkai and Mr. Zoltán Latinovits meeting at Miskolc, narrator Artúr Szöcs.

Following, theatrical gestures, by Mr. László Keszég.

What should we take against pneumonia? … by Mr. Máté Szabó. Summoning Déryné and yellow beetle.

Dance-music … back-time-time, Mr. Gábor Rusznyák.

An hour before noon, at 11 a.m., game-time … kids time … hullabaloo kids:  Table-tennis, theatrical makeup for girls and boys,  animals costume, fashion show.

As they say … Long live those who from time-to-time have some rest! Sun beds and parasols, refreshments and of course the famous local beer, the „Korty”, at the locally brewery and other Borsodi beer were to please and add a little rest for the parents.

3 p.m. Street Party with the members of the Miskolc Ballet.

4 p.m. Staying by the figures to the year 1823 of the National Theater opening, came the running race of 1823-meters. Individuals, beside the theater members fasten their running shoes and off they went for a run of 1823 meters in distance. The distance was twice the length to-and-from the stage entrance door. The winner of the race received two-tickets to an evening’s performance.

Usually, when you receive an invitation to join and celebrate a birthday party, you carry a gift. Here at Miskolc, the National Theater presented more than one gift to its faithful audience of their repertoire. What a day… four plays in a row in one day from their last season was brought on stage: The Garret, The Bald Soprano, Hamlet, Play it again, Sam! and the one-time played, Carmen in ballet.

As the day turned into the night, getting close to the end of the 1st. of September, 190 piece of candles were brought to the entrance, under the arcades of the theater, whereas a serenade by the Symphonic Orchestra of Miskolc, conducted by Mr. Ádám Cser was held beside the candlelight. Was a splendid, unforgettable day for locals, individuals from other regions of Hungary and the tourist in town spending time, seeing how the Hungarians partied, celebrated the 190 years old National Theater.

I hope by the time you read this update to the bottom line you will also wish to be a part and have seats at the Miskolc National Theater’s one or more than one of their plays, musicals, opera and so forth, if not you’ll pretty sure miss something awesome performances to see. Aware it is not fair to mention only one of the day’s gift show, but cannot hold back the superb show by the actor Mr. László Görög, as Allan Félix, in the play of Woody Allen … Play it again, Sam. Many of us witnessed a unique show directed by Mr. Attila Béres with the great scenes brought on stage by the production designer Mr. Balázs Horesnyi .

Was a splendid, unforgettable day for locals, individuals from other regions of Hungary and  indeed for those tourists being at the right place in the right time, being in the hustle at the City of Miskolc.

Here is a couple of shots into  the day’s  celebration:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFnM2a_PRXw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOcLok5Hi9E

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsyMD01Hu1k

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AR1t7ToB254

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TP-M5PKtRvI

Thanks goes out for the invitation and the lovely day …  wishing at least another 190 years ahead …

Happy Birthday National Theater Miskolc!

Update, snaps, video: Aggie Reiter

28 Aug

FOLK DANCE – LIVE GYPSY MUSIC AT THE “HALÁSZTANYA” FISHERMAN’S HAUNT AT KISPEST

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By invitation of media, travel agencies and tourist guides went to Kispest (District XIX) in Budapest to the Halásztanya (Fisherman’s Haunt). Upon entering our hands were filled with a glass of apricot pálinka, the house welcome drink. The place which dates it background history of 75 years. So an old place  keeping the design and tools always has a unique history. Just would like to note in low voice … the place could use some renovation, but most probably it will be done soon-or-later. The place  was built upon the plans of Mr. Károly Koós, whereas the inner part of the building, the centuries-old redwood columns and beams were brought  from  Transylvanian and installed.  The building’s first owner was Mr. Antal Dreher, the famous brewer who was, is well-known also across Europe and furthered. The occasion of the invitation was the importance to spread the news about the entertainment connected to the excellent home-made dishes and the  Hungarian traditional folk dance and spiced with gypsy musicians  filling the air. These programs recently have had become the brand of the Halásztanya. This evening beside the „riporters” a huge Swedish tourist group of around 60 individuals also attended the colorful folk show while enjoying the supper as it was served, watching the dancers, singers and a trio of gypsy musicians who also highlighted the evening’s autmosphere… see video below.

Almost naturally the supper started off with the Gulyás soup (so much-loved by the tourist), then came the ratatouille veal along with Hungarian style of baked potatoes and rice and at  lunch or supper the  sweet tooth individuals have their joy with the dumplings a’la Somlói. Red and Dry wine, soft drinks and the famous Dreher beer wasn’t missing for a minute on the tables. Seemed like the Swedish group enjoyed from head to toe their evening’s stay. The haunt was previously led by Mr. Endre Papp, one of the outstanding figures in the Hungarian cuisine . Speaking to Mr. Jozsef Rácz, specialist in charge of the Halásztanya, handling, organizing the events said, quote: „This is a place where weddings, social  get-together events  can be easily organized, by having a large terrace with a total of 400 guests to be seated and served.The place has also two separate rooms 30-30 guests to be seated. Around 300 people may have the delights out in the shady garden place from spring to fall.

Just by the place there is a parking lot, but also easy to reach by public transportation.

No other places in Budapest can beat the Halásztanya with its great opportunity it has to offer for tourist groups, foreigners staying in Budapest  to pop by before heading to the Budapest Airport to have a good Hungarian lunch or supper before they leave.  Certainly, an excellent opportunity to remember the taste of the traditional Hungarian cuisine while flying back home.

And for those foreigners who are permanently staying in Budapest and wish to enjoy the delights of the Halásztanya may get in touch with the place and order home delivery.

Wishing a pleasant stay and good appetite!

Address:

District XIX.  6, Városház tér, Budapest

Phone: +36 1 282 9873

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KKPlrj2T7I

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGVE4s5DBz4

Update, snaps and video by Aggie Reiter

15 Aug

HARVEST AND ADOPTION DAY AT THE BÉKÉSI PLUM PLANTATION

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PART1 OF THE DAY … By a special invitation the media representatives took a four hours drive back-and-forth (worthwhile) to the Békési plum plantation, whereas the „Treasure of the Körös” is located, to participate on the harvesting day at the land where the fruits mainly are turned into Pálinka.  Also beside the plum trees there are fine other specialties such as chestnut, cranberry, blueberry, strawberry, but their season has passed for now.

We arrived to the Békésiville’s Distillery, whereas the pálinka (hot-shot) begins. The land where the fruits are turned into Pálinka, chochos filled with pálinka, the famous Békési plum jams,  plum nectar, honey flavored plum pálinka, syrups are manufactured. The Békési Distillery was founded four centuries ago and has been ever since a family manufactory.  We had a  wonderful experience to be welcomed with such amazing hospitality, to see, to taste the locals home-made delights all-in-all with the use of the red plums from the land.

Mr. Zoltán Békési, the owner of the “Békési” brand, welcomed and greeted the media representative and gave a short introduction of the plantation itself and the products of the plum pálinka. Quote: “Our family members are all busy, involved in the manufacture activities. Three generations are working together to prepaid the finest pálinka to be bottled. Not hard to believe, the Békési plum pálinka is recognized by all Member States of the European Union. The typical red plum grows in the Körös Valley which has specific soil and the climate here is special and incomparable to any plum plantations throughout Hungary … (Note: At other regions also are grown juicy plums, they have other unique taste). In 2006. won the award as the „Quality Food from Hungary” In 2008, the red plum pálinka received the gold medal at the “Home-distilled Pálinka Festival”. Each bottle of pálinka has a limited edition with its bottled unique number of that specific year. We also produce100% pálinka with the mixture of flower honey. Pretty popular by the classy ladies, easy and smooth, not a hot-shot.

Was easy to learn their policy which is based on their traditions and knowledge to make the best pálinka from the ripe fruits with using the latest technology. Important to gain the best flavor of the plum pálinka is to „lay them in bed” … „aged in bed”. In the bed of cooked fruits it is aged for at least three months and the fruit is reborn which means gets a smoother flavor and also reach the final crystal color.

Mr. Békési’s presentation went all long as we all walked down lane and jointly got to work before the height of the midday sun melted us picking the red plums into the host’s home-made wicker basket. Had to work hard in advance for our lunch, (nothing is free… kidding) so we were taken out to the fields to pick a basket full of red plums and pour them into the huge container to be heading, undergo the procedure for the end product, the Békési Plum Pálinka.

We were also told, after filling the container all  of us may pick for themselves a basket full of red plums and take them home for whatever in use. After the hard work, came the relaxing hard part of the day Mr. Zoltán Békési, members of his family and co-workers hosted the media representatives in all it takes with a plums, a mouth-watering lunch.

PART2  OF THE DAY  …

Red Plum Tree Adoption at the Békési Plum Plantation.

Certification of rollinginbudapest adopted red plum tree :-)

Mr. Békési,  made a special announcement … Quote: ”Starting from to-day anyone can pick and adopt a red plum-tree up to ones taste, whether it is an older or younger plum-tree. From the harvested, adoptive tree itself, pálinka or to be cook  into the form of jam is possible. The possibilities are endless.”  The 1st. adoption was made by Dr. Lajos Bognár, Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Rural Development. He adopted the red plum-tree number one with its serial number. The Pálinka House plantation sits on 27 acres. Vibrating machines and harvesting is done by hand, which is then after transported to the Békési distillery to produce pálinka  and other products.

This year not just only because of the extraordinary weather huge, heavy, hanging plum amount of fruit grew in the area also wished to share nature’s gift by the announcement of  the Békési Manufacture and Distillery by their „invented”  adoption program. Mr. Zoltán Békési, the distillery owner has created a unique opportunity: as from to-day anyone can adopt a red plum-tree, which will be taken care by the members of the plantation for the adoptive individual.

Mr. Zoltán Békési, also informed us … Quote: “The possibility of adoption is open for anyone. Anyone who chose a certain plum-tree (see the snap of the board) in a row and the numbered tree will be her’s or his’s adopted red plum-tree and as it reach the harvest time, can be picked by her or him, or the workers at the plantation and the fruit itself will be their own. May have it cooked at the Békési Distillery or to take it away, cooked at home. As the fruit ripens a newsletter will be constantly posted to inform the owners of tree’s growth”.

On this day, the  first red plum-tree was to be adopted by the guest of honor Dr. Lajos Bognár, Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Rural Development. He adopted  the tree in the first row number one having the same serial number. Having this year his tree harvested, the Békési Pálinka Distillery will brew for him now his own the Békési red plum pálinka.

 The Békési Plum Plantation can be reached at Sarkadkeresztúr, KISNYÉK in the Békés County.

Added videos at the plumville’s harvesting day:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adf0aTgosmc&feature=youtu.be

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riTAYnnQIYI&feature=youtu.be

Update, snaps and video: Aggie Reiter

28 Jul

HERALD NEWS … GREATEST FEAST OF THE RED PLUM PÁLINKA AT BÉKÉS

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Q.: What could it be, that mellows your mind, luscious, juicy, intoxicating aroma, and on the bottom line, taste hell hot, sometimes stronger than a man … Giving up? See the A. below…

Scene:, 1., Ady Endre, Békés …will be organizing the 7th annual Feast of the Red Plum Pálinka!

This year the feast of the Red Plum Pálinka will fill the air all around Békés … no wonder cause the increasing success year-by-year had proved its popularity among local Hungarians and foreigners visiting and temporary staying in Hungary.

Here are some highlights of the day …  Be ready for a day of competitions:

Competition1 … „Ciber-soup” (Around the different regions of Hungary this soup is prepared with different kind of fruits, taste like a sour fruity bowl and serving cool). It’s like magic,  heavenly in taste, refreshing, especially on the hell hot summer days-and-nights.

Competition2 … Pálinka cooking ... Make your own pálinka.  Mashed fruit trucks will be rolling on the road to its final stop at the  Békési Pálinka Distillery. The winner of the wage decoction will receive the feast’s prize, as the best Palinka in the house. The competition is unique by itself, cause right on the spot the majority of the sample site assessment will be tested by the jury immediately.  The winner will receive an attractive prize handed over by the judges who are the experts of the Hungarian Palinka Knights. 

Competition3 …preparing, stuffing sausages will be there for handy individuals to have the experience  of preparing the traditional Hungarian sausages.

Competition4 …Family bike skill competition.

Programs:  Prune skill games not just for kids, but adults can also go for it. What will be awaiting for the visitors … special feast with more-and-more colorful programs than ever before,  and fluid mouth-watering delights, as home-made food spiced up plums awaiting to welcome the visitors at Békés … but what would be a feast in Hungary without the indispensable element of a huge selection of local hand-made crafts … guess not too much, that’s for sure, so there will be for all ages, all sorts of trifles which can be obtained at the booths  and surroundings at the feast and mind you donating your hubby, friends, relatives, clients a bottle or two of the purchased Békési red plum pálinka with a unique label will be just at your fingertips. Beside the heavenly flavor red plum pálinka a bunch of surprises, high-quality shows, entertainment for young and elder folks will be throughout the day.

So be there early on the 10th of August, cause from  dawn to midnight … meaning from 7 a.m. (for some folks it may seem to be dawn) a hug truck will roll along the streets of Békés with a bang-boom alarm and music to awaken the sleepers as to come and be a part at the celebrating party of the red plum pálinka. Just a glance to the programs to be offered, starting at 10 a.m. Children’s Playhouse in Paradise – Toys and craft programs. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. At the „cooking room” pálinka cooking competition. 10.15 a.m. the art of distillery and tasting 10.30 a.m. consume parade, kids plum costume parade. 11 a.m. the family bike skill competition organized by the Peaceful County Accident Prevention Committee.

Noontime … The performance of the  “Suttyomba” Underhand Band. 1 p.m. The charity sausage makers and service competition. Competing teams: Knightly Order of St. George, Csaba Sausage Club, Gyulai Traditional Butchers Association. 1 p.m.- 5 p.m. Brandy recognition test. 1.30 p.m. Aerobics time.  2 p.m. Belencéres Dance Ensemble. 3 p.m. Sausage competition’s awards ceremony. 3.15 p.m. Big Sausage Party, taste the County’s open fire baked sausage.

The evening’s entertainment won’t be missing, beginning at 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. with the Belencéres Dance Orchestra ensuring the moody atmosphere. After them coming  up on  stage the „Fasy Night Club”,  with Ádám Fásy  and his invited guest performers ,  LL Cool J, Zsüliett Fásy, Viktor Varga, Tibó Music, Anna Peller, Ádám and Fásy.

For those folks who survived the “tough challenging day”   filling up with yummies and tasting the unique by itself, the red plum pálinka  and still remain on one’s feet and feel like dancing may put on their dancing shoes and dance the night away from 10 p.m. until midnight along the hit tunes from way back at the Retro Disco..

Worthwhile to mark the day … Keep in mind, Saturday, August 10. 2013. … meet you at the steam mill distillery at Békés!

Update: Aggie Reiter

27 Jul

CARMEN SOUZA IN BUDAPEST TO SPICE UP YOUR MUSIC LIFE!

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A GIFT FROM AND TO BUDAPEST FOR YOU…

carmen_souza_press1

ONE-TIME OCCASION TO START THE BALL ROLLING WITH CARMEN SOUZA ON THE MARGARET ISLAND  BUDAPEST

 

Carmen Souza is rolling over to Budapest for the first time on her debut tour Kachupada, the new world music album’s material. Reserve your seat at the Margaret Island’S Open Air Stage and enjoy the hot summer night of Carmen Souza’s Soundscapes.

Friday, 8 p.m., August, 2. Margaret Island – Budapest

Carmen was born 27 years ago in Lisbon. She is a  Portuguese singer-songwriter, composer and multi-instrumentalist. Her family immigrated from Cape Verde. She was in her teens when already experienced the “Sodade” feeling of missing someone with the long absence of her father due to his work out on the sea. She grew up in a mixed environment of Creole, the Cape Verde dialect her parents spoke at home, and Portuguese, always surrounded by the capeverdean way of life. Carmen started singing professionally at the age of 17 in a Lusophone Gospel Choir and since then she participated in several projects from the road of Funky to Soul and from Jazz to World music.

Already released four albums, influenced on traditional African and Cape Verde rhythms like Batuke, Morna, Cola djon, with her jazz-’n-soul contemporary influences  brought a totally intimate and acoustic vibe, indeed different from the traditional environment of Cape Verdean sounds.

Just mentioning a couple of musicians  whom made a great influence on her personal style:  Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, Etta Jones, Ella Fitzgerald and as for the men: Horace Silver, Keith Jarret, Theo Pas’cal and Luis Morais, Joe Zawinul … but thanks to Theo Pas’cal, her producer and mentor and one of the best bass players in Portugal was the one who discover her talent and introduce her to the land of Jazz, Fusion and other contemporary sounds that really influenced her a lot.

Those individuals who are in the house on rooted jazz music needn’t have to introduce the band, but for those who ain’t too familiar with them can describe them in seven words: ”Remarkable, splendid performers in the current jazzville!”

So it’s now up to you rollinginbudapest out to the Margaret Island on this coming Friday, August, 2. to see and hear a slice of music which reflects the Cape Verde sound, yet bringing to it a superb evolution by Carmen Souza – vocals, guitar, Theo Pas’cal – bass guitar, double bass, Filipe Melo – piano, Kacomanolis Elias – drums, percussion.

Here’s an  “appetizer”,  a YT video from Carmen Souza:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3-RRVkK01A

Last, but not least here comes … the real musical delicacy, offering a premium experience package within: a round trip boat ticket, Latin style welcome cocktail, light meal, water tower observation deck. Now how does that sound?  Your seat can be purchased online at the website: Budapest Summer Festival 2013., http://eng.szabadter.hu/#

Update by Aggie Reiter

23 Jul

DAY 1 … ROLLING IN GYULA … 50TH GYULA FESTIVAL … STUDY TOUR

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Participated by invitation for a two-day study tour during June, 22 and 23. to the City of Gyula, organized by the Gyula Castle Theater and the Gyula Tourism  Non-profit Ltd.,  together with other media representatives. Was  kinda  road show,  getting acquainted of  the life and culture the city which offers for the locals and the Hungarians from other parts of the country and a terrific  showcase for the foreigners boarding, living in Hungary that beside Budapest, the Capital and the Lake Balaton there are places which are  indeed worthwhile to visit. Throughout our study tour “our guardian angel” was Ms. Aliz  Komoróczki, Manager  at GyulaTourism Office, who made a splendid and enjoyable stay for all of us.

The drive from Budapest to Gyula took 3 hours. Upon arrival our first stop … why not … we were taken to the  famous pálinka manufacture at Gyula.  It was so refreshing after the ride. Whether arriving individually or with a bunch of people, as a group this cozy spot  surely holds an experience to see, to hear and to learn about the number 1 spirit not just  in Hungary, but for those foreigners who once tasted it will never forget their stay in Hungary. Visited the world of spirits and it took us only 5 minutes drive from the City Center.  Upon arrival a presentation took place at  factory’s distillery named after “Baron, George John Harruckern”  who established the first pálinka distillery in Gyula in 1731.  The Baron Harruckern – Gyula Pálinka Manufactory Ltd. still continues the tradition over nearly 300 years.  Interesting part of the presentation was  to visit  the  brewery itself and a demo of the long way it takes to have a snip of the pálinka from the fruit till the fine taste of the Gyulai Pálinkai already bottled. They also accept fruit cooking by wage deals. To be or not to be hungry the tasty morsels await the gourmets. After the presentation been invited for a (“light lunch!”) cooked at the house.  During the lunch we were in the company of  having 5 shots of heavenly scent of the 100% fruit pálinka which surely made its way to  the knuckle and bean stew. We were told: Quote: ” Tasting the pálinka at the ideal temperature should  20C , you will feel the velvety soul of the fruit in every drop.”  Well we went by the rules and have to admit for our first stop we were fully trained.   They also have a small store on the spot where anybody can fill their baggies with the taste of  pálinka they have fallen in love. The Gyula Castle Theater  Director Mr. József Gedeon,  Director,  Gyula Castle Theater joined the “studies”  spoken about the sights-and-sound to come during the 50th anniversary of the Gyula Castle Theater. As we were told, tIt is going to be an ongoing,  longest in days,  summer festival  of the year. The festival holds celebration shows with invited theater performances  from around the country, smooth concerts, exhibitions, blues and jazz concert with international musicians .  Mr. Gedeon outlined the wide range  of comprehensive programs such as, Quote: ” The unique and rare Shakespeare laboratory which will be bringing the mixture of performances to remember for a lifetime. Even though Shakespeare  was not born as a Hungarian, here at Gyula he has a special place in our age. The Shakespeare festival has been expanded, developing  every year within an inclusive  celebration  of  programs of performances, screenings, workshops, readings and media events all connected to William Shakespeare, the Magnificat English poet and playwriter. The City of Gyula by itself is unique in Hungary by not just celebrating Shakespeare works within programs and performances, but also holding other prominent events during the festival. On the occasion of the 50th season of all-arts festival, the City of Gyula welcomes locals and foreigner visitors to  spend  as much time as they can in enjoying the Gyula Castle Theater’s productions . The whole venue holds a unique atmosphere whereas the visitors will get into the mood in the minute they enter the City.”

Our second stop was to the “Százéves” (Hundred Years Old) confectionery.  Guess what , did not have time to get hungry and we were welcomed with the finest, traditional hand-made chocolates, cakes and home-made ice creams. Our eyes ate more than we were able to eat. We were told the history of this sweet shop, so in a nutshell here it goes:  The  “Százéves”  (Hundred Years Old)  confectionery shop was set up in 1840 by the  owner Mr. Andrew Salis. At the corridor of the old pastry shop there is a small exhibition of tools and equipments in use from the past.  The cake recepies are preserved from the original description from the 19th century. Even though time slips by the confectionery  and the shop got older, the name remained as  “Százéves”  (The Hundred Years Old). We were told, the story of the name …  it had no name, but as years rolled by, folks simply kept saying they are going to the “Százéves” (The Hundred Years Old!). All sweet tooth knew where the road led them. To-day the place that takes you back in time to an intimate  scene with  restored original Biedermeier furniture and other facilities, open fireplace, museum, indoor and outdoor  service, of course depending of the season of the year. Later,  the owner of the confectionery was Mr. Reinhardt. Being in Gyula, worthwhile to note the address: 1, Erkel Square, Gyula.

Continuing the day’s program, out next stop was  to occupy our 2 days place of accommodation, as the guest of the local Tourinform at the 4star Hungest Hotel ERKEL – Dürer Building.  As entering  into the hotel I’d rather say it was a neat 5star hotel. A place for a pleasant holiday and recreation …  where everything is at your fingertips,  a place  after a hard week to relax hard … where you can enjoy the wide range of mouth-watering Hungarian dishes with also sweets-for-sweets.   The Hotel Erkel  had sugar and spice and all things nice … where the indoor natural hot spa is just a couple of steps from your room’s doorstep. Every window has the spectacular view to the Castle, also a fine view on the pond and around the ancient tress, hear the robin sing in the morning and can continue a list of the goodies that this hotel is up to, to make their guest their Day! The hotel was renewed two years ago, shares 177 double standard rooms, 5 suites view to the Fortress and 4 rooms for disable guests. The rooms are equiped with all the pleasures that stands for a 4star hotel. Worthwhile to note the address: 1, Várkert Street,  Gyula.  This hotel  has 3stars and 4stars accommodation for every generation: kids, teens, adults, students, pensioners.

There was  a break before supper and the evening’s official opening of the 50th anniversary at open-air theater to the Gala performance at the Castle. The press and media representatives were let to explore, go for a splash into the 4star ludo and thermal bath to pamper and relax at the Gyula Castle Spa.  So  some of the member of the group went to warm up their soul and body.  During the suppertime the representative from the Gyula Spa joined us and talked about the gift from heaven, the Gyula Castle Spa which has per year one million visitors, enjoying  the spa’s medical healing. Talking about  healing,  was told that the medical water wells up from the depth of 2005 meters.and the blowing temperature is up to 72C . It  contains alkali hydrogen-carbonated-chlorinated.  Was told it serves as a balm in case of locomotor disorder, rheumatic, local nervous, diathesis, gastric complaints of acidic origin  and for many other health problems to decrease the pain. The color of the water has a brownish tone owing to its high organic contents.  As we were told  quote: “May sound funny, yet true, if anybody would grab a shovel, start digging or even be in the mood to use a drill  and hit the soil would not be an oilman, but would experience the hot water eruption as the tsunamis.  Gyula lay on the soil of hot mineral water.

Gyula definitely has the most beautiful health resort in Hungary. The waterland lay on 8.5 hectere park which was 200 years ago the Almásy mension.  Everybody will find their favorite pool, cause there are 19 of them, such as  the waterfall, bubble pools with medical water and so forth. Wish to feel on the beach, no problem cause the wave machine will bring high and low waves. The new water-slide world  is a real paradise for the waterlovers.

The venue  and the atmosphere at the  evening’s opening  ceremony and the 50th  Gala performances  were  amazingly full of entertainment. Around the courtyard area at the Gyula Castle Theater  there is a stage upon the huge pond, where the plays  took place and also the stage during the lovely summer nights, with breeze sweeping through.  Not only high above will appear the twinkling stars, but the well know stars will be down here on the stage.  The croaking frogs from time-to-time kept you from not forgetting your on an outdoor theater stay, but that’s free of charge!  The Gyula Castle is the only gothic brick fortress whstormy ich has survived in whole Central-Europe. The evening’s last act was,  a play brought to Gyula by guest theater from Szigliget. „Silent Levente” director Jozsef Kiss, play writer: Jenő Heltai. Romantic story of King Matthias’s time. Peter Agárd Hungarian hero falls in love with a beautiful Italian widow Zilia Duca. The only virtuous lady and her friends persuaded the valiant horse is Sana Bepponak accept the stranger through the stratagem. Peter’s confession of love Agárd noble lady rejects. A reference to an old gallant at Piedmont Tradition calls for a kiss from her. Zilia one kiss from her demands him of three years of silence. The hilarious comedy is well known in Hungary  and also have had been on stage at number of countries around the world with great success.

Unforfortunetely, the stromy rian washed away the end of the play. Nature did not allow the play to come to an end, so sorry for the poor actors, who coulnd’t finish their performance.

During the opening Gedeon József, Director welcomed the gathering locals and the visitors from other regions and spoke about the Gyula Festival, Quote: Between 1st July and 15th August the guests are entertained with the best performances of historical dramas, different forms of contemporary prosaic theatre, opera, operetta, ballet, mediaeval courtyard-music,  jazz,  puppet-show, classic,
folk-music and folk-dance in the summer theatre. Not only the court of the fortress is turned into a theaterground, but
programs of great variety are available on the nearby lake-stage and on stages set up at different places in the town.

Even though “schools-out” Shakespearean performances  and workshops arranged by performing companies will be hand-picked to make the link between enjoyable and educational school’s activity on a non-school class day.

The City of Gyula by itself is unique in Hungary by not just celebrating Shakespeare works within programs and performances, but also holding concerts and other prominent events during the festival. The whole venue holds a unique atmosphere.

Between 1st July and 15th August the guests are entertained with the best performances of historical dramas, different
forms of contemporary theater, opera, operetta, ballet, mediaeval courtyard-music,  jazz,  puppet-show, classic,
folk-music and folk-dance during the festival.  Not only the court of the fortress is turned into a theaterground, but
programs alsorts of programs will be available at the nearby lake-stage and on stages set up at different places in the City.

Soon to be coming up the update on  Day 2 Study Tour …

In the meantime, have attached some videos to see some scenes from the 50th Gyula Castle Theater opening celebration:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rAerJrWZLg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsaQEAfPxzc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RU8KA_bCiY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXxjQuNEnMk

Update, snaps, video Aggie Reiter

10 Jul

SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVING IS EASY … ESPECIALLY VISITING THE CATHEDRAL (DÓM) SQUARE IN SZEGED

Posted by www.rollinginbudapest.com in Uncategorized. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , .

Source: Szeged Open-Air Stage

Source: Szeged Open-Air Stage 

NEWSFLASH  …

To a  real rarity for opera, jazz and gospel fans coming up …

 Szeged Open-Air Stage …

 two-time show,   both at 9 p.m. …

 George Gershwin: Porgy and Bess at the Cathedral (Dóm) Square …

August, 9  and 10. 2013.

For the time being this will be the only city in Europe to see and enjoy the superb masterpiece of the legendary opera. Most probably only a child born yesterday haven’t heard yet the emotional hit song the “Summertime”.  Gershwin’s  sensational  Porgy and Bess will be brought on stage by the performance of the  Living Arts Inc. company arriving from N.Y. This piece of art in the music history wasn’t on stage for decades in Hungary, but now it will come alive  in  the City of Szeged.

Casting in “Porgy and Bess”: Porgy: Richard Hobson, Crown: Philip Boykin, Sportin’ Life: Reggie Whitehead, Jake: Tom Elliott, Bess: Angela Owens, Maria: Stephanie Beadle, Serena: Anne Fridal, Lily: Jeanette Blakeley. Director: Susan Williams-Finch, playing:  the Szeged Symphony Orchestra, conductor: Stefan Kozinski.

In 1970, the Hungarian State Opera House at its Erkel Theater held  two cast of Porgy and Bess, directed by András Mikó. Main roles were sung by Ferenc Bégány, György Radnai  and Erzsébet Esterhazy and Éva Andor. The opera was staged more than a hundred times. In 1973 Gershwin’s opera was sold out on four occasion with a total of twenty thousand visitors at the Szeged Open-Air Festival.

The Hungarian National Opera House in 1981, had revived Porgy and Bess.  In 1991, at the Margaret Island’s Open-Air Stage was presented the opera with invited Afro-American descent guest artists and were warmly welcomed by the Hungarian audience. The heirs came up with more-and-more strict conditions to the roles. Gershwin insisted that the white characters should play the white roles and the Afro-American descent singers to be 100% Afro-American descent.  Indeed, this will be  the first production in Europe where Gershwin’s wish 100% will come true and alive.

Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess was based on DuBose Heyward‘s novel Porgy  and on  the subsequent play of the same title, which he co-wrote with his wife Dorothy Heyward.  George Gershwin  created the “American folk opera“,  the Porgy and Bess premiere was in New York during the fall of 1935 with the entire cast featuring of classically trained Afro-American singers.

Way back in 1943, was held its European premiere at the Royal Danish Theater in Copenhagen. There  all the opera singers were all-white cast in blackface. This was the time of the Nazi occupation. There were only 22 sold-out performances, thenafter having  closed down the production by  the Nazis. Other mainly white productions in Europe where in Zürich in 1945 and 1950, and in 1948, the opera was staged in Gothenburg and Stockholm. In 1954 it went on road  in several European countries,  also in Latin America and the Middle-East.  Porgy and Bess was presented at the La Scala in Milan for the first time, in February, 1955. In the middle of  the 50’s a major historic step, fully tense premiere took place in Moscow.  This was the 1st time after the Bolshevik Revolution an American theater group arrived to the Sovietunio’s capital.

Better to be quicky, if  you want to sharpen your sight and ears to the hit songs as the  “Summertime” or “I got plenty o’ nuttin”   before another takes your place!  Here you go … a site in English language, where all the information to get your tickets is available at your fingertips: http://www.szegediszabadteri.hu/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10792&Itemid=76

VISITING SZEGED WILL HAVE AT LEAST TWO MAIN PURPOSE TO DO SO …

1ST TO ATTEND AT THIS FANTASTIC  GERSHWIN’S PORGY AND BESS PERFORMANCE …

2ND TO TASTE THE WORLD-FAMOUS FISH SOUP A’LA SZEGED …

AND  LAST BUT NOT LEAST …  WHAT AN INTERESTING COINCIDENCE IN THE FIRST TWO LINES OF THE OPERA  … “SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVING IS EASY … FISH ARE JUMPING”  (YESSS …  MANY IN THE  RIVER TISZA  AT SZEGED)

WISHING EVERYONE A SUPERB  “SUMMERTIME” AT SZEGED

Update Aggie Reiter

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