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We are celebrating 40 years of Kengugró.
SAVE THE DATE!!!
Lunch, concert, reunion of all dancers from all Hungarian dance groups, táncház… more details to come!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1913643089512512
HUNGARIAN DANCE HOUSE
Warm your soul with Kengugró & The Transylvaniacs - a night of stomping, swirling and clapping! Táncház led by Norbert Rencz & members of Kengugró. Live music by The Transylvaniacs.
The band strikes up, the dance leader calls everyone up into a big circle and off we go. Before you know it, you will be spinning, slapping and swirling with wild abandon. For those who are just beginning or dancers not familiar with this style, the dances will be taught step by step to live music by The Transylvaniacs. Those already familiar with the style can enjoy the live music and let their feet do the talking. Dances will be taught from many regions including Szatmár, Kalotaszeg and Palatka.
BYO This time, we're going old school - BYO (bring your own) to drink and if you feel like it a plate of something to share. We will have a selection of snacks available but no dinner or bar at this venue.
6:30pm KIDS TÁNCHÁZ
7:30pm ADULTS TÁNCHÁZ
TICKETS
Book your ticket now: $25 Adults / $15 Concession / $10 U15 years / FREE U5s
ANNANDALE COMMUNITY CENTRE - UPSTAIRS HALL
79 Johnston St, Annandale
Once the Council Chambers and Town Hall, Annandale Community Centre has a historic charm and we're excited to fill it with music & dancing.
Walking distance from buses down Parramatta Road, or a longer stroll from Rozelle Bay light rail stop or Stanmore station.
Street parking available along Johnston and neighbouring streets.
ABOUT THE DANCE TEACHER
Norbert Rencz is from Érmihályfalva, Romania and began learning folk dance and music as a child. He moved to Budapest to study folk dance and danced for many years in the Hungarian National Dance Ensemble, while teaching groups in Budapest. He also plays folk violin! He is spending 2026 teaching Kengugró and playing music in Sydney as an ambassador of the Kőrösi Csoma Sándor program.
ABOUT KENGUGRÓ
Kengugró embodies the vibrant colours and energy of the twirling, whirling, jumping, slapping dance culture from the Carpathian Basin.
Since its inception in 1987, Kengugró accompanied by The Transylvaniacs have presented a rich smorgasbord of dance, music and song from across this region. Their repertoire draws primarily on the traditions of Hungary, Slovakia and Transylvania which they have shared with audiences across Australia, Hungary and Europe. They hold regular táncház (dance-house) with The Transylvaniacs around Sydney, encouraging everybody to join in the fun.
The táncház method of teaching traditional dancing was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Heritage of Urgent Safeguarding in November 2011.
Kengugró & The Transylvaniacs are thrilled to announce we will be joining in the fun at the Milton Folk Jazz & Blues Festival 1-3 May 2026.
Táncház and parties!!!
More information: https://miltonfolkjazzbluesfestival.com/
Kengugró & The Transylvaniacs will be performing at the 2026 National Folk Festival during Easter this year. Catch our processions and street performances, bringing a bit of Hungarian village atmosphere to the festival grounds or join in our táncház. Tim Meyen will be joining in the hammer dulcimer concert and of course we will be the centre of wild parties in the session bar every night.
Fri 3:30pm Procession around festival (30mins)
Fri 3:50pm Street Performance, Piazza (20mins)
Sat 10:30am Festival Dulcimers concert, Marquee (1hr) Staged discussion and performance between artists showcasing hammered string instruments from around the world, including the Persian santoor, Middle Eastern kanun, and European cymbalom. Through music and conversation, performers will share their rich traditions and sounds.
Sat 1:10pm Táncház, Piazza (1hr) Step into a family-friendly Táncház, a traditional Hungarian dance house where music and movement bring people together. Join Kengugró and The Transylvaniacs as they lead families through circle and partner dances full of twirls, jumps, and stamping feet. Rooted in the folk traditions of the Carpathian Basin, this family dance is all about rhythm, fun, and connection.
Sat 8:30pm Session Bar (1hr 30mins) The Transylvaniacs lead a string session using aural methods from across the Carpathian Basin. Play along with the flowing melodies and harmonies, or join the spontaneous dancing that brings these traditions to life.
Sun 4:50pm Street performance, Budawang Forecourt (20mins)
Sun 7:50pm Roaming street performances (50mins)
MORE INFO: Melbourne Találkozó
The Vajdaszentiványi Dance Seminar is coming in full force to the Hungarian Community Centre this summer – and you won’t want to miss a beat.
Join us for 6 incredible days of immersive folk dance, live music, and unforgettable community spirit as we bring the soul of Vajdaszentivány to Melbourne!
Dance Workshops taught by the best of the best:
Balázs Ertl & Anna Zsófia Tokos from Nemzeti Táncszínház, Budapest
Live Music Magic featuring:
Ádám B. Kis (violin), Marcell Szabó (viola), Sándor Juhász (double bass), Tim Meyen on cimbalom
…and the one and only Transylvaniacs from Sydney!
TÁNCHÁZ EVERY NIGHT!
Feel the rhythm, wear your boots, and lose yourself in the spirit of Transylvanian dance – every evening will be a celebration.
Hungarian & Greek dance-house with live music
Kengugró & The Transylvaniacs
with guests
Estudiantina (Greek/Melbourne)
Your chance to combine two of the most exciting dance forms in one action-packed evening. In no time, you will be swept off your feet by the exotic tunes and rhythms, expertly led by dance teachers.
This will be an event to remember! The two groups met at the National Folk Festival in 2024 where they partied together into the wee hours at the session bar.
ABOUT ESTUDIANTINA
Estudiantina of Melbourne - This ensemble reinvigorates the essence of traditional Greek music, igniting a vibrant fusion of cultures and ethnicities. This dynamic ensemble intertwines the rich tapestry of Greek, Turkish, Jewish, and Armenian influences, weaving a captivating musical journey. With a masterful combination of instruments including the oud, bouzouki, violin, kanun, Accordion and guitar, their performances resonate with spellbinding innovation and timeless allure. www.estudiantinaofmelbourne.au
ABOUT KENGUGRÓ & THE TRANSYLVANIACS
Kengugró embodies the vibrant colours and energy of the twirling, whirling, jumping, slapping dance culture from the Carpathian Basin.
Since its inception in 1987, Kengugró accompanied by The Transylvaniacs have presented a rich smorgasbord of dance, music and song from across this region. Their repertoire draws primarily on the traditions of Hungary, Slovakia and Transylvania which they have shared with audiences across Australia, Hungary and Europe. They hold regular táncház (dance-house) with The Transylvaniacs around Sydney, encouraging everybody to join in the fun.
The táncház method of teaching traditional dancing was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Heritage of Urgent Safeguarding in November 2011. www.kengugro.org
THE POLISH CLUB ASHFIELD, SYDNEY
We are very excited to be returning to the Polish Club, Ashfield. We are keen to develop a relationship with the Polish community and warmly welcome the Syrenka dancers to join in the party. ALL WELCOME!!
The club is centrally located on the main street of Ashfield close to buses and station. Pedestrian access only possible from 182 Liverpool Road.
Parking: 73-75 Norton Street. Continue down the ramp and turn right at the first level. You can easily enter the club from the carpark using the lift. Alternatively, there is always plenty of street parking in the surrounding area with pedestrian access to the club via the front entrance on 182 Liverpool Road.
Arrive early (6-6:30) to eat dinner at Sto Lat, the Polish club's restaurant, which features lángos, pierogi and many other delicacies on its menu. We highly recommend booking a table directly with the restaurant to ensure a spot. www.polishclub.au
Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/733511709669241
Can't make it to this event? No worries. Just join our mailing list. And you will receive details about the next one.
One Rhythm, Two Cultures – A Folk Celebration
On September 20, the Polish Club in Ashfield transforms into a folk dance hall where two proud cultures meet for POLGARIAN – a Polish–Hungarian Folk Extravaganza!
Be swept away by a folky celebration of music, dance and colour as Poland and Hungary come together on one stage. From the spirited villages of Transylvania to the elegant ballrooms of Wilanów, this event will take you on a journey through Europe's old world traditions and folk.
Enjoy a full choreographed showcase from Syrenka (Polish) and Kengugró (Hungarian), accompanied by energetic melodies straight from the motherlands. Then take to the floor yourself during the interactive Táncház, where a 6 piece Hungarian band, The Transylvaniacs, will lead a traditional lively dance circle and teach authentic Hungarian steps – giving you every excuse to keep moving late into the night!
Whether you’re curious about these unique cultures, just love folk or want a fun way to party, this celebration of friendship between the Polish and Hungarians will be a night of pure fun, joy and dance!
Saturday 20 September 6:30pm–1:00am
Polish Club Ashfield
Bring your friends and celebrate the lasting bond between Poland and Hungary!
HUNGARIAN FESTIVAL IN SYDNEY
Bring your family, invite your friends – and let’s celebrate Hungarian culture together in a fun-filled day of music, food and tradition!
We’ve got something for everyone – kids and adults alike:
– Market stalls with local handmade crafts
– Arts & crafts corner and fun games for children
– Scout tent, camp-style activities and obstacle course
– Traditional folk dance shows and dance house
– And of course... delicious Hungarian food and desserts
Live music, great vibes, and a warm community – a day to feel at home, wherever you're from!
No need to speak Hungarian to join – everyone is welcome!
If you’re curious about Hungarian culture, food, dance and smiles, this day is for you.
Share the event and invite your friends – the more the merrier!
Kengugro performing at this concert
HUNGARIAN DANCE HOUSE
Warm your soul with Kengugró & The Transylvaniacs - a night of stomping, swirling and clapping!
Táncház led by Daniel Mészáros, Ramóna Nyers-Bakó, Ádám Baracskai & Viola Turcsányi. Live music by The Transylvaniacs.
The band strikes up, the dance leader calls everyone up into a big circle and off we go. Before you know it, you will be spinning, slapping and swirling with wild abandon. For those who are just beginning or dancers not familiar with this style, the dances will be taught step by step to live music by The Transylvaniacs. Those already familiar with the style can enjoy the live music and let their feet do the talking. Dances will be taught from many regions including Szatmár, Kalotaszeg and Palatka.
BOOK TICKETS
https://events.humanitix.com/winter-5-july-tanchaz
Book your ticket now: $30 Adults / $20 Concession / $10 U15 years / FREE U5s
Tickets are entry only, they do not include meals or drinks.
THE POLISH CLUB ASHFIELD
We are very excited to be returning to the Polish Club, Ashfield. We are keen to develop a relationship with the Polish community and warmly welcome the Syrenka dancers to join in the party. ALL WELCOME!!
The club is centrally located on the main street of Ashfield close to buses and station. Pedestrian access only possible from 182 Liverpool Road.
Parking: 73-75 Norton Street. Continue down the ramp and turn right at the first level. You can easily enter the club from the carpark using the lift. Alternatively, there is always plenty of street parking in the surrounding area with pedestrian access to the club via the front entrance on 182 Liverpool Road.
Arrive early (6-6:30) to eat dinner at Sto Lat, the Polish club's restaurant, which features lángos, pierogi and many other delicacies on its menu. We highly recommend booking a table directly with the restaurant to ensure a spot.
ABOUT THE DANCE TEACHERS
Three of our vibrant young dance teachers are here in Australia on a nine month scholarship with the Kőrösi Csoma Sándor program. Daniel Mészáros and Ramóna Nyers-Bakó (Vajdaság region of Serbia) and Ádám Baracskai (Budapest). Viola Turcsányi dances with Kengugró in Sydney and has plenty of experience teaching at festivals and táncház.
ABOUT KENGUGRÓ
Kengugró embodies the vibrant colours and energy of the twirling, whirling, jumping, slapping dance culture from the Carpathian Basin.
Since its inception in 1987, Kengugró accompanied by The Transylvaniacs have presented a rich smorgasbord of dance, music and song from across this region. Their repertoire draws primarily on the traditions of Hungary, Slovakia and Transylvania which they have shared with audiences across Australia, Hungary and Europe. They hold regular táncház (dance-house) with The Transylvaniacs around Sydney, encouraging everybody to join in the fun.
The táncház method of teaching traditional dancing was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Heritage of Urgent Safeguarding in November 2011.
Can't make it to this event? No worries. Just join our mailing list. And you will receive details about the next one.
A taste of what to expect on the night...
DAY, OVERNIGHT & TÁNCHÁZ PASSES available now
Kengugró & The Transylvaniacs are thrilled to present our 4th Hungarian folk dance & music seminar in Sydney. Bringing our dream to life, Csűrös Band plus dancers Zoltán Varga & Katalin András will be joining us all the way from Méra, in the Kalotaszeg region of Transylvania.
Kids Táncház
Dance, singing and games to live music. Join in the fun with Kengugró & Valabi Banda.
Saturday 8 February from 10am
Magyar Iskola Sydney, Homebush West Public School
Fundamentals of the dances from Ördöngösfüzes, Transylvania.
Basic rhythm learning, coordination, leading/following, holding your mark and general posture. Partner and solo dances. Live music by The Transylvaniacs.
This workshop will be helpful to beginners, intermediate and advanced dancers and it will be lots of fun. Geared towards adults and teenagers (over 14s) who are confident to dance with partners. Not suitable for young children. You do not have to be Hungarian nor do you need a partner, just come as you are. Also, a great warm-up for dancers thinking about doing the Kengugró Kalotaszegi Tabor in April.
Dates: Sat 18 AND Sun 19 Jan 2025
Venue: Clemton Hall, Cnr Miller St and Dunkirk Ave, Kingsgrove
Time: 3 hour class on both days 4-7pm
Cost: $25 per day
Reserve your spot: https://events.humanitix.com/fuzesi-dance-weekend-workshop-with-ricsi-reicher
What to wear: Let's face it, even though the hall is air-conditioned, you are going to sweat. For ladies: exercise tights or bike tights with a t-shirt and lightweight skirt (you might want to remove the skirt for the slapping sequences. Men: t-shirts and shorts or lightweight pants. Footwear: Leather or hard-soled shoes, also bring some trainers for warm-ups. Bring two t-shirts so you can change halfway through - your dance partners will appreciate it. Bring a hand towel to dry off.
Ricsi is a professional Hungarian dance teacher, visiting from Slovakia. He danced professionally for many years with Ifjú Szívek Company and is currently teaching at Csali Children's Group in Somorja (Samorin) and Szőttes Ensemble in Pozsony (Bratislava).
Examples of Ördöngösfüzesi dance:
Taught by Kristóf Sebestyén (KCSP)
Join in the fun on the Friday nights listed below for some traditional Hungarian folk dancing and games for under 14s. Once we see who turns up, we will split into appropriate age brackets.
Bistro will be open with delicious food options and bar.
A great family night out!
Dates:
Friday 8 November 6:30pm
South Hungarian Club
31 Glendenning Road, Glendenning NSW 2761
More Information: Sári Dezsényi +61 404 690 121
FREE ADMISSION. No bookings required.
Taught by Kristóf Sebestyén (KCSP)
Join in the fun on the Friday nights listed below for some traditional Hungarian folk dancing and games for under 14s. Once we see who turns up, we will split into appropriate age brackets.
Bistro will be open with delicious food options and bar.
A great family night out!
Dates:
Friday 25 October 6:30pm
South Hungarian Club
31 Glendenning Road, Glendenning NSW 2761
More Information: Sári Dezsényi +61 404 690 121
FREE ADMISSION. No bookings required.
Taught by Kristóf Sebestyén (KCSP)
Join in the fun on the Friday nights listed below for some traditional Hungarian folk dancing and games for under 14s. Once we see who turns up, we will split into appropriate age brackets.
Bistro will be open with delicious food options and bar.
A great family night out!
Dates:
Friday 27 September 6:30pm
South Hungarian Club
31 Glendenning Road, Glendenning NSW 2761
More Information: Sári Dezsényi +61 404 690 121
FREE ADMISSION. No bookings required.
Taught by Kristóf Sebestyén (KCSP)
Join in the fun on the Friday nights listed below for some traditional Hungarian folk dancing and games for under 14s. Once we see who turns up, we will split into appropriate age brackets.
Bistro will be open with delicious food options and bar.
A great family night out!
Dates:
Friday 13 September 6:30pm
South Hungarian Club
31 Glendenning Road, Glendenning NSW 2761
More Information: Sári Dezsényi +61 404 690 121
FREE ADMISSION. No bookings required.
Ring in the spring with Kengugró & The Transylvaniacs - a night of stomping, swirling and clapping!
Táncház led by Kristóf Sebestyén from Hungary and members of Kengugró. Live music by The Transylvaniacs.
After a wonderful winter warmer táncház at the Polish Club we're BACK to welcome spring... if you missed us last time come along to see what it's all about!
The band strikes up, the dance leader calls everyone up into a big circle and off we go. Before you know it, you will be spinning, slapping and swirling with wild abandon. For those who are just beginning or dancers not familiar with this style, the dances will be taught step by step to live music by The Transylvaniacs. Those already familiar with the style can enjoy the live music and let their feet do the talking. Dances will be taught from many regions including Szatmár, Bonchida, Kalotaszeg and Palatka.
ENTRY $30 Adults / $50+ Patron / $10 U15 years / FREE U5s
Tickets are entry only, they do not include meals or drinks.
The Polish Club, Ashfield
https://polishclub.au/
We are very excited to be returning to the Polish Club, Ashfield after our July táncház. We are keen to develop a relationship with the Polish community and warmly welcome the Syrenka dancers to join in the party. ALL WELCOME!!
The club is centrally located on the main street of Ashfield close to buses and station. Pedestrian access: 182 Liverpool Road / Parking: 73-75 Norton Street
Arrive early (6-6:30) to eat dinner at Sto Lat, the Polish club's restaurant, which features lángos, pierogi and many other delicacies on its menu. We recommend booking a table directly with the restaurant to ensure a spot.
More info here: https://polishclub.au/dine-and-drink/
Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share/KnwJYsFyyPDvxpeH/?
Taught by Kristóf Sebestyén (KCSP)
Join in the fun on the Friday nights listed below for some traditional Hungarian folk dancing and games for under 14s. Once we see who turns up, we will split into appropriate age brackets.
Bistro will be open with delicious food options and bar.
A great family night out!
Dates:
Friday 30 August 6:30pm
South Hungarian Club
31 Glendenning Road, Glendenning NSW 2761
More Information: Sári Dezsényi +61 404 690 121
FREE ADMISSION. No bookings required.
Taught by Kristóf Sebestyén (KCSP)
Join in the fun on the Friday nights listed below for some traditional Hungarian folk dancing and games for under 14s. Once we see who turns up, we will split into appropriate age brackets.
Bistro will be open with delicious food options and bar.
A great family night out!
Dates:
Friday 16 August 6:30pm
Friday 30 August 6:30pm
South Hungarian Club
31 Glendenning Road, Glendenning NSW 2761
More Information: Sári Dezsényi +61 404 690 121
FREE ADMISSION. No bookings required.
Taught by Kristóf Sebestyén (KCSP)
Join in the fun on the Friday nights listed below for some traditional Hungarian folk dancing and games for under 14s. Once we see who turns up, we will split into appropriate age brackets.
Bistro will be open with delicious food options and bar.
A great family night out!
Dates:
Friday 2 August 6:30pm
Friday 16 August 6:30pm
Friday 30 August 6:30pm
South Hungarian Club
31 Glendenning Road, Glendenning NSW 2761
More Information: Sári Dezsényi +61 404 690 121
FREE ADMISSION. No bookings required.
Taught by Kristóf Sebestyén (KCSP)
Join in the fun on the Friday nights listed below for some traditional Hungarian folk dancing and games for under 14s. Once we see who turns up, we will split into appropriate age brackets.
Bistro will be open with delicious food options and bar.
A great family night out!
Dates:
Friday 19 July 6:30pm
Friday 2 August 6:30pm
Friday 16 August 6:30pm
Friday 30 August 6:30pm
South Hungarian Club
31 Glendenning Road, Glendenning NSW 2761
More Information: Sári Dezsényi +61 404 690 121
FREE ADMISSION. No bookings required.
Join Kengugró & The Transylvaniacs for a night of stomping, swirling and clapping!
Táncház led by Kristóf Sebestyén from Hungary and members of Kengugró.
Live music by The Transylvaniacs.
The band strikes up, the dance leader calls everyone up into a big circle and off we go. Before you know it, you will be spinning, slapping and swirling with wild abandon. For those who are just beginning or dancers not familiar with this style, the dances will be taught step by step to live music by The Transylvaniacs. Those already familiar with the style can enjoy the live music and let their feet do the talking. Dances will be taught from many regions including Szatmár, Bonchida, Kalotaszeg and Palatka.
ENTRY $30 Adults / $10 U15 years / FREE U5s
Tickets are entry only, they do not include meals or drinks.
The Polish Club, Ashfield
https://polishclub.au/
We are very excited to be holding our first táncház at the newly-renovated Polish Club, Ashfield. We are keen to develop a relationship with the Polish community and warmly welcome the Syrenka dancers to join in the party. ALL WELCOME!!
The club is centrally located on the main street of Ashfield close to buses and station. Pedestrian access: 182 Liverpool Road / Parking: 73-75 Norton Street
Arrive early (6-6:30) to eat dinner at Sto Lat, the Polish club's restaurant, which features lángos, pierogi and many other delicacies on its menu. We recommend booking a table directly with the restaurant to ensure a spot.
More info here: https://polishclub.au/dine-and-drink/
Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/963971491936814
Taught by Kristóf Sebestyén (KCSP)
Join in the fun on the Friday nights listed below for some traditional Hungarian folk dancing and games for under 14s. Once we see who turns up, we will split into appropriate age brackets.
Bistro will be open with delicious food options and bar.
A great family night out!
Dates:
Friday 5 July 6:30pm
Friday 19 July 6:30pm
Friday 2 August 6:30pm
Friday 16 August 6:30pm
Friday 30 August 6:30pm
South Hungarian Club
31 Glendenning Road, Glendenning NSW 2761
More Information: Sári Dezsényi +61 404 690 121
FREE ADMISSION. No bookings required.
Taught by Kristóf Sebestyén (KCSP)
Join in the fun on the Friday nights listed below for some traditional Hungarian folk dancing and games for under 14s. Once we see who turns up, we will split into appropriate age brackets.
Bistro will be open with delicious food options and bar.
A great family night out!
Dates:
Friday 31 May 6:30pm
Friday 5 July 6:30pm
Friday 19 July 6:30pm
Friday 2 August 6:30pm
Friday 16 August 6:30pm
Friday 30 August 6:30pm
South Hungarian Club
31 Glendenning Road, Glendenning NSW 2761
More Information: Sári Dezsényi +61 404 690 121
FREE ADMISSION. No bookings required.
KENGUGRÓ PRESENTS
Táncház led by Kristóf Sebestyén from Hungary and members of Kengugró. Live music by The Transylvaniacs. Performance by Kengugró.
Enjoy an evening of Hungarian folk culture, partake of delicious meals, rejoice in song and dance or simply sit back and soak up the atmosphere.
Saturday 18 May 2024 • Kids táncház from 6:30pm / Adults from 7:30pm
Hungarian Magyar Social Club
706-708 Smithfield Rd, Edensor Park, NSW 2176
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL!
https://events.humanitix.com/18-may-tanchaz
MEALS
If you are planning to have dinner, please pre-order your meal when booking your ticket.
MEALS MUST BE ORDERED BY THURSDAY 16 MAY 5PM
Delicious menu options:
Chicken schnitzel with salad and mashed potato $25
Lentil stew with meatballs and salad $25
Lentil stew with salad (V) $20
Deep fried cheese with salad (V) $25
TICKETS
Entry only: Adult $30, Under 15 $10, Under 5 - free
https://events.humanitix.com/18-may-tanchaz
All proceeds from entry go to fundraising for the Kengugró Kalotaszegi Tábor 2025
Are you going to the Festival? If yes, you will likely bump into Kengugró & The Transylvaniacs on the festival streets, regaling passers-by with impromptu Hungarian village dance, music and games, in the Coorong for a dance workshop and of course, in the Session Bar where we will be carousing every night until the wee hours.
Fri 29 Mar - 3:00-4:00pm - Dance Workshop - Coorong
Fri 29 Mar - 5:50-6:10pm - Street Performance - Fitzroy forecourt or gate
Fri 29 Mar - 8pm-late - Party - Session Bar
Sat 30 Mar - 4:00-4:40pm - Street Performance - Coorong forecourt
Sat 30 Mar - 8:00-8:20pm - Street Performance - Fitzroy forecourt or gate
Sat 30 Mar - 9:30pm-late - Party - Session Bar
Sun 31 Mar - 10:00-10:30am - Street Performance - Fitzroy forecourt or gate
Sun 31 Mar - 11:20-11:40am - Street Performance - Coorong forecourt
Sun 31 Mar - 8pm-late - Party - Session Bar
Come and support Kengugro’s Bunnings Bonanza Fundraiser on 20 January 2024. We will be raising money to hold a music & dance seminar. There will be live music and spontaneous singing and dancing throughout the day. Oh and sausages.
Shake off those mid-winter chills and join us for a warming weekend of Hungarian dance and music.
Táncház and dance workshop taught by Gyuri Kubányi from Hungary. Live music by The Transylvaniacs.
The band strikes up, the dance leader calls everyone up into a big circle and off we go. Before you know it, you will be spinning, slapping and swirling with wild abandon. For those who are just beginning or dancers not familiar with this style, the dances will be taught step by step to live music by The Transylvaniacs. Those already familiar with the style can enjoy the live music and let their feet do the talking. Dances will be taught from many regions including Szatmár, Bonchida, Kalotaszeg and Palatka. Meals will be available from 6-10pm.
Book your ticket now: $30 Adults / $10 under 15 years / $0 under 5s
Tickets are entry only, they do not include meals or drinks.
For those who wish to dig a bit deeper into the steps, Gyuri will be teaching a 3 hour workshop on Sunday - call it a recovery dance workshop. Come and learn Szatmári verbunk and Bonchidai csárdás alongside members of Kengugró. This workshop will be accessible to beginners and advanced dancers alike. Not suitable for young children. After the workshop, we will be staying for a few drinks and a bite to eat.
Book your ticket now: $25 Adults
Tickets are entry only, they do not include meals or drinks.
Hungarian Magyar Social Club, 706-708 Smithfield Rd, Edensor Park, NSW 2176
Delicious Hungarian meals will be available from the kitchen and drinks from the bar.
For more information regarding meals: 0450800455 info@hungariansc.com.au
Gyuri Kubányi is from Sátoraljaújhely, Hungary. He is currently staying in Perth where he is teaching dance via the Körösi Csoma Sándor Programme (KCSP). He has been dancing all of his life, starting with the Zemplén Folk Dance Ensemble and then later with the Kertész Dance Company in Budapest. He has toured and performed in Asia and South America. In his words "I believe it is important to nurture our wonderful Hungarian culture, our diverse dances and our Hungarian language with its rich vocabulary on both sides of the border, so that future generations can have access to the Hungarian identity".
Kengugró embodies the vibrant colours and energy of the twirling, whirling, jumping, slapping dance culture from the Carpathian Basin. Since its inception in 1987, Kengugró accompanied by The Transylvaniacs have presented a rich smorgasbord of dance, music and song from across this region. Their repertoire draws primarily on the traditions of Hungary, Slovakia and Transylvania which they have shared with audiences across Australia, Hungary and Europe performing with some of the leading dancers and musicians in the genre.
We are very excited that Zoli (Varga Zoltán Laszló) and Kata (András Katalin Biborka) will be coming out for the találkozó. They are from Méra, Transylvania and teach mainly Kalotaszegi dances. We (Kengugró) have been learning from videos he posted on YouTube during covid. This is the material Kengugró has been working on all year.
Kata and Zoli are students at the Sapienta Performing Arts University in Kolosvár. Kata was born in Csíkszereda and from a young age worked with the Hargita State Székely Folk Ensemble. She now teaches many dance ensembles in the Kalotaszeg region and also recently performed with the Hungarian State Theatre of Kolosvár in The Young Barbarians. Zoltán was born and bred in Méra. He now teaches over 200 children and young people in the Kalotaszeg region. Under his direction in 2016, the Méra Cifra Dance Ensemble were finalists in the Fölszállott a páva tv competition and in 2017, winners in their category. In 2019-2020 Zoltán travelled to New Jersey, USA with Kőrösi Csóma Sándor program, teaching dance. He is also the founder and creator of the FolkOtthon media channel which is now known and loved around of the world.
The idea we have for the dance teaching is based on the type of arrangement we had in Sydney in 2017. Where dancers (high school age and over) from all over Australia learnt a dance together then performed it at the closing concert. Who remembers this? https://youtu.be/xSgjA8q8nck Each day of the festival, we will have dance and singing classes taught by Zoli and Kata accompanied by live music by The Transylvaniacs. You don’t need to be part of a dance group to participate, everyone is welcome.
For those who are keen to join in the dance classes but do not wish to perform at the Gala, there will be an entry fee of $5 or $10 per day.
As you know, we will be meeting each day to learn Kalotaszegi from Zoli and Kata. At the end of the weekend, all seminar participants will perform together in the Sunday closing concert. According to the timetable we will have 5 classes.
If your group also wishes to perform individually in either the opening or closing concerts, please let Michelle know: mishnish2@gmail.com. It would be fantastic to have more dance numbers in the concerts.
If you have a kalotaszegi costume, please bring it to wear for the closing concert. If not, please bring a mezöségi costume instead. Girls will need headscarves or párta.
Please try to attend all of the dance classes - this will make it more enjoyable for everyone. Be respectful to the teachers by arriving on time and ready to dance. Each class will be accompanied by live music supplied by members of The Transylvaniacs (Mark, Sally, Tim, Jozsi, Sári and Theodore). Zoli and Kata will teach at the appropriate middle level so that everyone can keep up the pace. They will also lead some singing at the end of each practice. Teaching will be in Hungarian language with a local translating to English.
What to wear: Let's face it, even though the hall is air-conditioned, you are going to sweat. For ladies: exercise tights or bike tights with a t-shirt and lightweight skirt (you might want to remove the skirt for the slapping sequences. Men: t-shirts and shorts or lightweight pants. Footwear: Leather or hard-soled shoes, also bring some trainers for warm-ups. Bring two t-shirts so you can change halfway through - your dance partners will appreciate it. Bring a towel to dry off.
Every evening we will be having a táncház/party to finish off the day. Zoli and Kata will teach some táncház including other regions like Szatmári, Bonchidai and Palatkai which will morph into a buli. Táncház in the main auditorium will finish at 11pm. We are currently searching for a late night party venue where we can play live music until 2am.
For families with young children or adults not wishing to participate in the full dance program, there will be a public táncház on Sat 18 Feb from 10am-12pm. The entrance fee for this event is $5 per adult / children free.
Rooms at Bel Air on Broadbeach are now booked out. Please find and book your own accommodation.
Please register your attendance here. Contact: lorinckovacs@hotmail.com
Michelle Turcsányi
Dance Program Coordinator
0403855599 mishnish2@gmail.com
XVII. Ausztráliai Magyar Kulturális Találkozó
Gold Coast 2023. Február 16-19.
www.talalkozogoldcoast.com
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087451989801
Boot basics and rising skirts.
Fundamentals of dances from the Palatkai band
Sürü, ritka, korcsos, csárdás szökös
Basic rhythm learning, coordination, leading/following,
holding your mark and general posture.
Live music by The Transylvaniacs.
This workshop will be helpful to beginners, intermediate and advanced dancers and it will be lots of fun. You do not have to be Hungarian nor do you need a partner, just come as you are.
Dates: Sat 21 AND Sun 22 Jan 2023
Venue: Clemton Hall, Cnr Miller St and Dunkirk Ave, Kingsgrove
Time: 3 hour class on both days 4-7pm
Cost: $25 per day
Book your tickets here
Józsi is a professional dancer and choreographer originally from Canberra, living in Geneva and has had a lifetime of experience in both Hungarian folk and contemporary dance.
What to wear:
Let's face it, even though the hall is air-conditioned, you are going to sweat. For ladies: exercise tights or bike tights with a t-shirt and lightweight skirt (you might want to remove the skirt for the slapping sequences. Men: t-shirts and shorts or lightweight pants. Footwear: Leather or hard-soled shoes, also bring some trainers for warm-ups. Bring two t-shirts so you can change halfway through - your dance partners will appreciate it. Bring a towel to dry off.
Some samples of Palatkai dance:
https://youtu.be/uw9jTDNUlWs
