On 11 September 2020, at the first premiere of The Muse of France Season, the Embassy of France represented by Pascale Andréani, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and the Hungarian State Opera represented by general director Szilveszter Ókovács signed a cooperation agreement at the Eiffel Art Studios.
The 2020/21, The Muse of France Season is dedicated to French culture, artists, composers and authors as well as French works. The season features 29 operas (including 2 premieres), 11 ballets (2 premieres), plus 10 special events and concerts connected to French culture. The first premiere of the season, the ballet show entitled Cactuses at the Miklós Bánffy Stage of the Eiffel Art Studios included the first of these works: the pas de deux choreographed to Erik Satie's Trois Gnossiennes. During the interval, ambassador Pascale Andréani and general director Szilveszter Ókovács signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen the relationship between the Embassy, the French Institute of Budapest, and the Hungarian State Opera and promote each other's cultural and artistic goals.
Prior to the signing ceremony, Szilveszter Ókovács named the cooperation with the Embassy and the French Institute fruitful. "It is essential that this season is supported by ideas, organisation and an exchange of programmes." He thanked the French delegates to Budapest for enabling the Opera to represent the French spirit faithfully in its performances and programmes. "The French are everywhere. It is a great culture that deserves respect. We are delighted to be able to present works based on this culture since it enriches Hungarian culture as well," – added the general director.
Pascale Andreani expressed her hope that many will come to the numerous programmes offered by the Opera. "For me, this is a wonderful sign of friendship and the cultural cooperation that its rooted deeply in the French – Hungarian connections," – added the ambassador.
Photo by Attila Nagy
