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Ensemble performs at Hungarian gala A colorful explosion of vibrant colors on beautifully embroidered costumes and a flurry of dance steps are sure to enthrall the audience at the Cleveland Hungarian Scout Folk Ensemble's 30th anniversary Gala Performance. On Saturday, November 15 at 7pm. Lakewood Civic Auditorium, the program,"My homeland, my beautiful country!" will feature the current members of the ensemble performing to live music by �letfa from New Jersey and Cleveland's own Harmonia. Additional special performances will include the "old generation," the former members of the ensemble, and the next generation, the up-and-coming 6- to 10-year olds. The evening of song, dance and music from the Hungarian homeland promises to be a teastament not only to the richness of the Hungarian culture but also to the Hungarian youth of Cleveland who are preserving the customs and traditions of their ancestors. The ensemble, a group within the Hungarian scout troops of Cleveland, was organized in 1973 by Andrew and Mary Temesvary for grassroots study of Hungarian culture. The aim of the group is to preserve dying folk arts of the Hungarians living in the Carpathian basin; to search out the arts, make them their own, and present them to their viewing audience. Folk dance, folk music, folk songs, folk costumes, folk art forms, ballads, instruments and customs are each explored in depth. Directed by Eszter Pigniczky, the scout troops are the sole source of memebership for the Hungarian Scout Folk Ensemble. All members must be at least 14 years old, be capable of reading, writing, and speaking fluent Hungarian and also be active in their own troop's activities. The ensemble dances, makes their own costumes, sings as a choir, hand paints eggs for Easter and celebrates other holidays with traditional Hungarian customs. Research, woodcarving, painting, and many performances during the year round out highly active and rewarding experiences for each member. The ensemble has performed in many places including Michigan, New York, New Jersey, Ontario, Quebec, Hungary and Transylvania, as well as offering local performances at Cleveland State University, Kent State University, Canton Civic Center, Akron's E.J. Thomas Hall, Cleveland's Palace Theater and Blossom Music Center. Audiences have included many dignitaries, including mayors, governors, ambassadors, and even President Ronald Reagan. During the summer of 2001, the ensemble toured northern Hungary and Transylvania for ethnographic research and for the members to see folk culture firsthand in the villages. Tickets for the 30th anniversary Gala Performance are $15 and $10 for children under 14. Call (216)521-8352 for reservations Cleveland Plain Dealer |
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