The Beginnings

The Baranya Dance Ensemble was formed in 1967 through the merger of two folk dance groups at the Pécs Teacher Training College, and has been active ever since without interruption. The ensemble’s former leaders included, amongst others, Antal Kricskovics and Antal Vidákovics, who were awarded high state honours for their artistic careers (the Erkel Prize and the Middle Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary).

Their most significant achievements include: reaching the final of the ‘Ki Mit Tud’ talent show in 1972; holding the title of ‘Perpetual Outstanding Ensemble’ since 1982; and receiving the PRO URBE PÉCS award from the city of Pécs in 1989. They have toured Europe and Asia with their performances.

Their Mission

The dance group has long been one of the best-known groups in Hungary specialising in Croatian folk dance. Through their performances, they have visited almost every Croatian-populated settlement in the country. In addition to Croatian dances, their programme naturally includes Hungarian dances as well, whilst the third part of their repertoire consists of dance theatre pieces. In their work, they place great emphasis on ensuring that young people who dance with them become familiar with our country’s folk music and folk dances (particularly those of the Croats in Hungary), and that they preserve the traditions which make Hungary so rich and colourful.

They hold their rehearsals twice a week at the University of Pécs. The members of their in-house band are well-known performers of Croatian folk music in Hungary. Every year, they launch a junior group to replace the young people who have completed their training.

Image source: https://www.facebook.com/BaranyaTancegyuttes/