The organizers and supporters of the Budapest Ballet Grand Prix (BBGP) held a full-house press conference in the foyer of the National Dance Theatre. The 3rd Budapest Ballet Grand Prix, an international ballet competition, will be organized by the Hungarian Dance University (HDU) between November 17 and 21. Alongside the university, the National Dance Theatre and Müpa will also serve as venues for the event.
At the press conference, Erika Miklósa — Chair of the Board of Trustees of the main sponsor, the MOL – New Europe Foundation — was unable to attend in person, but in her welcome speech, which she sent separately to the Organizing Committee, she emphasized that what began as a great idea has now become a prestigious competition, thanks to the dedication of the organizers.
“…For the third year now, I have been witnessing the magical rise of the Budapest Ballet Grand Prix, an excellent young ballet dancers exposure. In a very short time, it has earned international recognition and is now a significant ballet competition in Central Europe, attracting young talents from all over the world. It simultaneously offers a window onto the international scene and provides opportunities for the most gifted to receive ballet scholarships in Central Europe and a launchpad for their careers. Talent truly flourishes when there is space to grow and a community that believes in it. The MOL – New Europe Foundation places special emphasis on supporting young talents and their mentors,” emphasized the Kossuth Prize-winning opera singer and recipient of the Order of Saint Stephen.
Photos by Pál Csillag (HDU)
At Friday’s press conference in Budapest, Márta Fodor-Molnár, Rector of the Hungarian Dance University (HDU), stated that applications for the competition — aimed at young dancers aged 14 to 24 — will close on Friday. So far, more than 140 registrations have been received from 22 countries, and 80 young ballet dancers will be selected from among the applicants. The event also offers various ballet masterclasses to complement the competition experience and enhance the dancers’ skills.
Irén Novák, Deputy State Secretary for Arts and Community Culture at the Ministry of Culture and Innovation, commented on the heightened interest surrounding this year’s competition, stating that it is no coincidence, as Hungarian dance and ballet artists are world-renowned. She recalled that talented young Hungarian dancers achieved outstanding results at last year’s competition. “Those who come here to study also help spread the good reputation of our country,” she said, emphasizing that the event also plays an important role in shaping the country’s image abroad and contributes significantly to ballet education in Europe.
János Kiss, Kossuth Prize-winning ballet artist and Chair of the Board of Trustees of the foundation overseeing the renewal of the university, spoke about how the BBGP offers a true ballet opportunity for advancement for students, as well as for both young and more experienced dancers. “It’s a chance for them to take the next step in their careers and to be noticed by renowned leaders and artists from the world’s major dance companies,” emphasizing the of importance of ballet opportunities, ballet training and professional growth.
At the event, Tamás Nagy, Director of the Budapest Ballet Grand Prix, a great ballet competition in 2025, gave a detailed introduction of the international ballet jury members, highlighting that their presence is a true guarantee of the event’s high professional standards. In keeping with tradition, the chair of the international jury will once again be a globally recognized Hungarian ballet artist — in 2025, this honour goes to Master Mária Aradi, who was greeted with a standing ovation at the press conference.
It was also revealed, somewhat humorously, that Tamás Nagy — who also serves as Chair of the Artistic Council at the Hungarian Dance University, the organizing body of the competition — was the subject of a student’s thesis.
As for the jury, ballet competition judges include Mária Aradi, Megan Fairchild, Mário Radačovský, Kinsun Chan, Jahn Magnus Johanssen.
Mária Aradi is a globally recognized Hungarian ballet artist and the chair of the international jury for BBGP 2025. She has had a distinguished career as a principal dancer at several major ballet companies. Her expertise and artistic insight make her an invaluable leader for the competition’s jury panel. Today, she still works tirelessly as a teaching ballet master of the Hungarian National Ballet and as an invited guest instructor of the Hungarian Dance University.
Megan Fairchild is a New York City Ballet principal, and she is renowned for her technical skill and expressive performances. She brings extensive experience in both classical and contemporary ballet to the jury. Megan is celebrated for her versatility and commitment to advancing young dancers’ careers.
Mário Radačovský, Artistic Director of The Ballet of the National Theatre Brno, is an accomplished Slovak ballet artist known for his dynamic stage presence and strong technique. He has performed leading roles in several international ballet companies. Mário’s experience as both a dancer and mentor enriches the jury’s perspective in evaluating competitors.
Kinsun Chan, a Swiss-Canadian choreographer, Ballet Director of the Semperoper Ballet, is a principal dancer with the Hong Kong Ballet and recognized for his elegant style and powerful performances. He has been praised for his artistry and ability to connect with audiences worldwide. Kinsun brings a global viewpoint to the BBGP jury through his international career.
Jahn Magnus Johanssen, Assistant Director of Norwegian National Ballet and Leader of The Norwegian National Ballet Youth Company, is a celebrated ballet dancer and choreographer from Norway. He is known for his innovative work and contribution to contemporary ballet. Jahn’s artistic vision and creative approach provide valuable insight to the competition’s judging process.
At the end of the press conference, Dr Attila Simon, CEO of Herend Porcelain Manufactory Ltd., presented the prestigious award crafted by the renowned company, which will be given to the top performers of the BBGP. Following this, the CEO spoke about a special exhibition featuring unique and rarely seen Herend pieces, which has been opened in the foyer of the National Dance Theatre.
At the press conference, it was repeatedly emphasized that there could be no better venue for the competition than the National Dance Theatre. Several speakers expressed their gratitude to its director, Péter Ertl — a former acclaimed dancer — for hosting the event, as well as to Csaba Káel, CEO of Müpa.
The organizers and participants warmly welcome all those interested to attend the Budapest Ballet Grand Prix from November 17 to 21, 2025, at the National Dance Theatre, and to the Gala performance at Müpa. The event also significantly contributes to ballet education in Central Europe, strengthening regional artistic development.
