Hungary can be a cultural bridge between China and Europe.
That's the word from Csaba Kael, general manager of Budapest's renowned Palace of Arts, or Muveszetek Palotaja (MUPA) in Hungarian.
"Among all the European nations, Hungary has a particular sympathy with the East," Kael said in a recent interview with Xinhua. "As well as the many big-name (Chinese) performers we have had here at MUPA, we have also regularly hosted Chinese New Year celebrations."
Ensembles, such as the Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra and Beijing Symphonic Orchestra, have wowed Budapest audiences, while renowned pianists Chen Sa and Lang Lang have also performed in the city.
MUPA's international relations manager, Gabor Palfi, said he is keen to develop the Chinese connection.
"We are aware of the exceptionally strong cultural potential that China has. We would love to see more Chinese artists taking the stage soon at MUPA," Palfi said.
The 1,700-seat MUPA was founded in 2005 and immediately picked up numerous awards for its modern architecture. These days, Kael said, MUPA has positioned itself in the elite club of top world performing arts venues, like Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in New York, and the South Bank Center in London.
Artists at MUPA are considering inviting more Chinese violinists and pianists to Budapest, Palfi said. He also hoped that the Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra and Chen Sa would soon come again.
The Hong Gang Philharmonic Orchestra, the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra and the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra are also on MUPA's wish-list, together with non-classical ensembles, such as the New Purple Forbidden City Orchestra, and the Shanghai Jazz Band, he said.
Not just performers are welcomed in Budapest, Kael said.
【1】 【2】 Source: XinhuaRelated ReadingSpecial Coverage
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