Seiga Sato is an alumnus of the Hungarian Dance University. Since graduating in 2022, he has travelled all around the world and has now arrived in Budapest accompanying a Japanese ballet student. Taking this opportunity, we spoke with him.
Seiga Sato began his professional career with the Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida in Miami, where he performed a wide range of repertoire. During his time with the company, he also appeared as a guest artist at the Varna State Opera in Bulgaria, where he danced the role of the Jester in Swan Lake and performed the Grand Pas de Deux in Harlequinade. The Japanese ballet artist spoke about these and other interesting experiences in the following interview.
You graduated here in Budapest in 2022—how do you look back on your time at the Hungarian Dance University?
It was a very exciting period of my life. I remember the 8 a.m. classes were really tough, especially in winter. But those difficult days made me a stronger professional. The undergraduate program itself was also a serious challenge, as I didn’t speak English at first, but the great environment helped me learn the language very quickly. Most importantly, I built lifelong friendships! I’m still very close with my best Hungarian friend, Tamás Darai; whenever we can, we visit each other and take classes together. Since many graduates from here have become internationally recognized dancers, I can confidently say that anyone who studies here is in the best place and can experience true artistry.
What has happened to you since you graduated at the Hungarian Dance University?
After receiving my degree, I moved to the United States and danced for three years with the Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida in Miami. After that, I performed as a guest artist at the Varna State Opera in Bulgaria. I then toured across the United States with the World Ballet Company, followed by working in Japan as a freelance dancer and instructor. Currently, I am waiting for my European work visa so I can begin working at the Stara Zagora State Opera in Bulgaria.
Why would you recommend this university to others?
I believe the instructors have very strong professional experience, and the campus and new ballet studios are both spacious and beautiful. Most importantly, the Hungarian Dance University is the perfect place for anyone who wants to become a professional dancer.
