A richly illustrated album, entitled Hungarian National Ballet Institute – the first decade, has been published by the Foundation for the Ballet Students of the Hungarian State Opera, showcasing the achievements of the ballet school. The 200-page bilingual publication provides insight into the professional training and goes behind the scenes of stage performances and competition results.
The Hungarian State Opera launched its own ballet training under the name of the Hungarian National Ballet Institute (HNBI) in 2016, but the need to establish the school was already expressed in 2013. The programme, managed by ballet director Tamás Solymosi and artistic director Dace Radina, is supported by tuition fees and foundation grants. This year, a total of 113 students are participating in 11 classes, who have participated in more than 20 productions in recent seasons. HNBI students have also successfully performed in prestigious competitions such as the Youth American Grand Prix, Tanzolymp in Berlin, VIBE – Vienna International Ballet Experience, and the Budapest Ballet Grand Prix. Thanks to the sponsors of the Foundation, the Ballet Institute organized a grand international and independent ballet competition in Veszprém called the Hungarian Ballet Grand Prix, and its first graduating student is now a full member of the Hungarian National Ballet ensemble, while even students in lower grades are preparing for an adult role as covers.
The album edited by international communications manager György Jávorszky covers the eventful history of the Hungarian National Ballet Institute up to the end of the 2023/24 academic year, while also providing insight into the process by which children develop into true artists and dancers. In addition to introducing the masters and curators, the publication presents a historical overview and a long list of competition results and describes the productions that were created with the cooperation of the HNBI (The Nutcracker, Paquita Suite, Swan Lake) or specifically tailored for the students (Little Swan Lake, Little Sleeping Beauty, Little Corsaire).
The album, published by the Foundation founded by ballet dancer Mária Aradi and chaired by Annamária Steiner-Isky, can be a valuable read and something to browse for those who are curious about the genre of ballet, or where the family are considering a career in dance for their children. The richly illustrated publication also takes readers behind the scenes: how make up is done, what a dress rehearsal is like, what the atmosphere is like during the preparation with the stars of ballet, and it gives a glimpse into a tour performance or summer courses as well. In addition, you can learn about the new rehearsal and practice rooms where students are trained, and the future plans aimed at developing the education and infrastructure further.
Hungarian National Ballet Institute – the first decade is available at the OperaShop and online from 22 November 2024. Discounts for members of the OPERA loyalty programme apply.
