"Something special is in store for those tourists and locals looking for cultural fare in the Opera House this month. A month long summer dance intensive conducted by the Hungarian National Ballet Company's Artistic Director, Gábor Keveházi , will culminate in a public international audition for vetted participants on July 23rd in the beautiful Hungarian State Opera House.The audience will get a behind the scenes peek into what has been, up to now, a process open only to professional eyes. 18 ladies will showcase their various skill sets under pressure as they audition for European companies. European Artistic Directors will be situated in the audience with a critical eye towards contracts.
The first half of the evening will see each candidate wearing their audition number at the ballet barre on stage for the evaluation of those skills that are fundamental to the selection process. Ballet masters will conduct class in technique and Pointe work. It's the most impromptu part of the evening because dancers have no idea what they will be asked to do. The second part of the show will have the same dancers testing their theatrical and artistic presence as they perform exciting classic and character works from the Hungarian Ballet repertory.
Finally, a world premier choreographed by the renowned contemporary artist, Raza Hammadi, will be performed. Most importantly, there is an award for the "People's Choice". Audience members will be asked to submit their ballot with their favorite dancer selection. As much as any other factor to be considered, is the theatrical appeal a dancer has for the theatre goers. It is with this in mind that the Hungarian Ballet has opened the audition to the public.
"Please bring your enthusiasm to this rare 'reality show' that has no precedent", smiles Ildikó Pongor, International ballet star and one of the directors of the project. "We have worked hard to ensure that these dancers are well poised to demonstrate a well rounded look at their abilities. But, we do need a discerning audience to complete the process." as she underlines the importance of audience feedback in an audition process of this caliber.
Overseeing the project has been Artistic Director, Gabor Keveházi, who has been hands on throughout the program. "We are trying new things in a traditional forum. We want to help dancers and at the same time educate the public. Anyone attending this event cannot help come away with a taste of what is required to be onstage. It is not an easy process. When you attend the ballet, it is good to have an understanding of how those dancers earned their position. Overall, the public will have a great insight into our artistic treasures.".
For more ticket information on this very affordable exciting event click here
Tickets may also be purchased on site at the Opera House ticket box from July 13th between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on workdays. All tickets in the house are just 3000 HUF which is 11 Euros (1.000 HUF - below 4 Euros - for all students). So, order now to take part in this wonderful evening of ballet hopefuls!
Photo: Participants of the Hungarian National Ballet Company's Summer Intensive try on their tutus in the Opera House in preparation for their July 23rd showcase performance
Source: Opera.hu
23.07.2009