'The grape harvest is an occasion for communal work that is rich in traditions related to labour and celebration. In preceding centuries, the celebratory aspect was particularly pronounced. Across the vineyards, one would hear music playing, singing and the firing of guns. The grape harvest traditions of the 20th century contained agricultural elements of different eras, nature and origins, traditions of costume and drama and social manifestations of guild life. Modern variations of the grape harvest traditions are linked to the harvest procession, parade and ball or dance,' explains the Hungarian Ethnographic Lexicon. Today, urban audiences can learn about these customs in a performance from groups who preserve these traditions, and which - once again quoting the lexicon - 'Peasant traditions are usually presented in a comprehensive manner (with song, dance, music, customs, games and costumes), in a more or less staged form, carefully preserving, usually by showcasing their own songs, dances and costumes as part of the stage presentation of folk customs.'
Our performance will enable the audience to get up close and personal with the complex, colourful and joyous Hungarian grape harvest folk traditions and the folk dance ensemble, while also enjoying some glimpses into the main preparations for the unfettered joy of the grape harvest ball.

The event will be followed by a free activity session on Banner Square entitled Reverberation for groups holding tickets to the performance.

Age: 10-14 year
Presented by: Müpa Budapest