The Grand Gala Concert ‘Liszt 212 Years’ in Durrës served as a cultural bridge connecting Albania and Hungary, marking the culmination of ‘Hungarissimo 2023,’ the Hungarian Cultural Week in Albania.

The theater’s sacred space resonated with the powerful compositions of Franz Liszt, as the performers conveyed the passion and momentum of the great Hungarian classic to the Albanian audience with each stroke of the bow and every note played.

The ‘Aleksandër Moisiu’ theater came alive with the echoes of Franz Liszt’s compositions as the RTSH Symphony Orchestra performed to an entranced audience. Renowned pianist Almira Emiri’s captivating performances embodied the spirit and complexity of Liszt’s works, earning enthusiastic applause. Under the masterful direction of conductor Oleg Arapi and artistic guidance of Liman Malok, the immersive experience electrified the audience.

The evening’s program was thoughtfully curated and featured pieces played in our country for the first time. ‘Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2’ vividly portrayed the Hungarian soul with its familiar melody, ‘Les Preludes’ presented an orchestral soundscape of epic proportions, and the drama and uniqueness of ‘Totentanz’ thrilled the listeners. These timeless and complex compositions not only graced the Albanian stage but also brought a new spirit to the audience, taking them on a musical journey into the heart of Hungarian romanticism.

In addition to the performance, the evening was made even more beautiful with a special gift to the Durrës theater. In the past 15 years, the theater lacked a piano for its performers. ‘Hungarissimo,’ in collaboration with the Embassy of Hungary in Albania, facilitated the repair and return of a functional instrument to the stage. This piano will benefit established pianists as well as young talents from Durrës, who will now have the opportunity to shine on the ‘Aleksandër Moisiu’ theater stage.

This year’s ‘Hungarissimo’ was particularly significant as it coincided with the 200th anniversary of Hungary’s national poet, Sándor Petőfi. His influence and the celebration of his life and works have had a global impact, and the Week of Hungarian Culture in Albania played a part in this international commemoration.

The series of events across Albania, spanning from Tirana through Vlorë, Pogradec, Korçë, and culminating in Durrës, was more than a showcase of Hungarian culture; it was a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the promotion of mutual understanding and respect between nations. The success of the Hungarian Cultural Week is not only reflected in participation and applause but in its enduring impact on fostering intercultural dialogue. This event was embraced not only within Albania but also celebrated by many Hungarian friends in Hungary and beyond. The enthusiasm and positive feedback from participants and the audience affirm that the event successfully achieved its goal of celebrating and strengthening the cultural ties shared between Hungary and Albania. The Festival Academy organizing group is profoundly grateful to all those who joined us on this journey.

The Hungarian Culture Week has made an indelible mark on Albania’s cultural landscape, emerging as an incredible success story. Featuring a diverse range of events encompassing music, art, and literature, it not only paid tribute to Hungarian heritage but also paved the way for future collaborations and cultural endeavors between the two countries. This celebration has inevitably set a high standard for similar events in the future.

/m.ll/