Azerbaijan and Hungary are united by centuries-old historical
ties. The two countries enjoy a long-standing partnership in many
fields, including political, economical, cultural, etc.
Hungary recognized Azerbaijan's independence on December 26,
1991, while diplomatic relations between the two countries were
established on April 27, 1992.
The two nations have a strong and lasting relationship based on
friendship, trust, and mutual respect, which has continued to
evolve, reaching the level of a strategic partnership.
The cultural ties between the two countries have grown and
developed significantly over the past years. Cultural cooperation
is also characterized by high dynamics of mutual visits.
In his interview with azernews , artistic director of the
Debrecen Folk Dance Ensemble (DNE) Vilmos Hercz shared his thoughts
and cultural experiences in Azerbaijan.
Q: Could you tell us about yourself and the purpose of
your recent visit to Azerbaijan?
A: My name is Vilmos Hercz, and I am artistic
director of the Debrecen Folk Dance Ensemble (DNE), folk dance
pedagogue, choreographer, Young Master of Folk Art. I have been
taking the DNE for almost 20 years, we have been the standout at
many domestic and international folk dance festivals! Nearly 200
people in 5 age groups dance in the group!
It was a great experience to participate in the Azerbaijan tour.
We have never been to this country before, so we were really
looking forward to the moment of the trip and after our arrival we
enjoyed a lot of Azerbaijani hospitality, which hereby we would
like to thank the organisers again!
Q: What is common in the cultures of Azerbaijan and
Hungary? What kind of music did you like in Azerbaijan the
most?
A: There are many common features in the
traditional performance of folk music, folk dance and folk songs in
Azerbaijani and Hungarian culture, for example they improvise very
nicely and perform it at a high level and pass it on to the
audience.
The Mugham music was impressive and captivating; we heard
original music and staged arrangements as well. The diversity of
dances and the vibrancy of the costumes were very beautiful.
Q: You have attended the Kharibulbul International Music
Festival in Shusha. How impressive was the event for you? What was
the most particular moment that remained in your
memory?
A: The location of the Kharibulbul Festival was
held in a beautiful environment. We danced twice on the main stage,
it was the most beautiful place where we have danced so far. The
music and theater productions on the small stages in the city were
fantastic as well.
We really liked the selection of locations and the diversity of
the programs at the Festival! I would highlight the decoration of
the performance venues with live flowers, it was beautiful!
Q: Would you recommend Azerbaijan as the best tourist
destination in Hungary? And if you could come to Azerbaijan once
again, which places would you want to see again?
A: I recommend Azerbaijan to everyone as a
tourist attraction! We met very nice people in Baku and have
already started organizing another tour.
There are still sights left, we only spent one day sightseeing!
We also ate very delicious food, but we would continue this
cultural gastronomic journey by getting to know other features of
the region.
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