Budapest Operetta and Folklore Theater

On the board

One of the best programs in Budapest!

Don't miss it!

Budapest Operetta & Folklore Theatre on the Danube

Our Operetta and Folklore theatre performance takes place at the heart of Budapest. The newly built catamaran which serves as the location was built specifically for this purpose.

Our Operetta and Folk Theatre lines up operetta and opera stars, ballet and folklore dance artists and masters of the classical orchestra. Musicians excelling in playing the violin, the viola, the cello, the double bass or the dulcimer, performing the most popular folksongs of the Hungarian operetta history.

The ‘Opera’ genre is known by most, but it is a little-known fact that the genre ‘Operetta’ originates from it.
Bright tunes spiced up with plenty of humorous bits that are often about love. The story is usually joyful and comical and tends to contain tasteful mockery. The structure is made up of prosaic monologues and conversations, as well as simple arias, uplifting songs and dance bits which are usually based on folk and folkloric foundations.

Our Operetta and Folklore dancers embody the trademarks of the Hungarian folk history as well as the artistic essence of Austro-Hungarian Empire. Fancy dresses and costumes, the marvellous panorama of Budapest bring back fond memories of the atmosphere of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
The breath-taking Budapest panorama serves as live background to our Operetta and Folklore Theatre. Owing to this one of a kind ‘stage’ our guests are in for a treat when it comes to our unique, cultural yet entertaining Theatre.

WHY OUR PROGRAM?

Folklore and Operetta Show

~ 3 hour Budapest cruise

Drink and dinner based on selected ticket

Private table

Ticket types

Ticket with 3 Course Dinner

This ticket includes a 3-hour sightseeing tour and a 3-course served dinner. The dinner includes a soup, a main course and a dessert. You may choose amongst our dishes on board. Drinks can be bought as part of a soft open bar package or can be ordered from our on-board bar.

  • From € 70

Deluxe Dinner & Cruise

Partake in a supreme gastronomical experience. This ticket includes a 3-hour sightseeing tour and a 6-course served dinner. You may choose amongst our dishes on board. Drinks can be bought as part of a soft open bar package or can be ordered from our on-board bar.

  • From € 84

Hungarian Operetta & Folklore Theatre – at a unique location


Join us for this unforgettable Theatre cruise.

During the tour, our catamaran takes two, rich- in- sights laps on the river that divides Budapest.

In addition to the joys of the Operetta and Folklore Theatre, you can indulge in the gorgeous sights of Budapest, such as the bridges, the House of Parliament, the Fisherman’s bastion or the Citadel. The alluring panorama is guaranteed to turn a simple evening into one of your greatest experiences with the help of our entertaining Folklore and Operetta Theatre.

In addition to the wonderful sights of the Hungarian capital, you can partake in a memorable gastronomical experience as well. As part of our Operetta & Folklore Theatre you have the opportunity to spoil your senses with a few drinks, a 3- or 6-course dinner.

The Budapest Operetta & Folklore Theatre provides a 3 in 1 experience: dinner, sightseeing and entertainment.
The cruise provides the option for you to explore the cultural or gastronomical side of Budapest even if you are only here for a short break.

Our complex, unique cultural programme in Budapest is truly one of a kind.
When boarding our cruise, you will get the chance to decide where to enjoy the Budapest Operetta & Folklore Theatre from. You can select your table and for a surcharge you can also opt for a table by the window to marvel at the beauty Budapest sports.

Gallery

TESTIMONIALS

Food is good! Big portions and tasty. Show is amazing, entertaining. One of the male dancer is attractive 😉

Kristina Lesko

1/3

We booked the dinner cruise with the Hungarian Folk Show, we received a warm welcome on arrival and shown to our table, the 3 course meal was excellent, the music and entertainment good and our waiter was first class, the major buildings were all illuminated which were quite spactacular. A very enjoyable evening.

Ben Lukas

2/3

Spent my bday in Budapest and took this amazing cruise. The ride on the Danube was an exceptional experience in and of itself but the dinner and entertainment were the icing on the cake! The dancers and musicians were extremely talented, the singer had a gorgeous voice and the interaction with the audience kept my attention. I had the duck which was perfectly moist, the potatoes excellent and my drinks delicious! I took the cruise on a Monday so it wasn't a full boat so I suggest you try it on a Monday, as well.

Brian Kay

3/3

A Hungarian folkloric and operetta traditions are rich and vibrant aspects of Hungary's cultural heritage. These traditions have deep historical roots and have contributed significantly to the country's artistic identity. In this lengthy description, we will explore the history and significance of Hungarian folkloric and operetta traditions.

Folkloric Traditions:

Hungarian folklore is a tapestry of myths, legends, folk songs, and dances that have been passed down through generations. It reflects the country's complex history, a blend of indigenous traditions and influences from neighboring regions. The Hungarian people, known for their resilience and strong sense of identity, have preserved these traditions despite centuries of external pressures.

Folk Music: Hungarian folk music is characterized by its unique scales and rhythms. The haunting melodies of the violin and the cimbalom, a hammered dulcimer, are often at the forefront of folk performances. The use of the pentatonic scale, unusual time signatures, and emotive storytelling through music make Hungarian folk songs distinctive and deeply evocative.

Dances: Hungarian folk dances are a captivating spectacle. They vary by region, with different costumes, steps, and themes. The csárdás, a fiery couple's dance, is perhaps the most famous. Dancers exhibit incredible energy, precision, and passion, often performing intricate footwork and twirls. Traditional costumes, known as "kalocsai" or "matyó" attire, add to the visual splendor.

Folk Tales and Legends: Hungarian folklore is replete with mythical creatures and legends. From the menacing "táltos" (a supernatural horseman) to the enchanting "tündér" (fairy), these stories have been told around campfires for centuries. Notable folkloric figures include "Szent László" (Saint Ladislaus) and "Toldi Miklós," the Hungarian equivalent of a national hero.

Festivals: Hungary's folk traditions are celebrated throughout the year in various festivals. The most famous is perhaps the Busó Festival in Mohács, where participants don masks and costumes to scare away winter. Other festivals, like the Kecskemét Folk Festival, showcase the diversity of Hungarian folk culture.

Operetta Traditions:

Hungarian operetta, often referred to as the "Silver Age" of operetta, holds a prominent place in the world of musical theater. It emerged in the late 19th century and reached its zenith in the early 20th century. Hungarian operettas are known for their delightful melodies, witty lyrics, and captivating narratives.

Origin: The roots of Hungarian operetta can be traced to the Vienna Operetta, which was immensely popular in the late 19th century. Hungarian composers and librettists, such as Franz Lehár and Emmerich Kálmán, began creating their operettas in Hungarian, often infusing them with elements of Hungarian folk music and dance.

Golden Era: The early 20th century saw the Hungarian operetta flourishing. Composers like Kálmán and Lehár composed timeless classics, including "Die Csárdásfürstin" and "The Merry Widow." These works combined romance, comedy, and catchy tunes, making them popular not only in Hungary but also internationally.

Distinctive Elements: Hungarian operettas often incorporated folk motifs, such as the csárdás dance, into their productions. This blend of classical operatic traditions with indigenous Hungarian elements created a unique and compelling genre.

Legacy: Hungarian operetta remains a cherished part of Hungary's cultural heritage. Its influence can still be felt in contemporary musical theater, and revivals of classic operettas continue to draw audiences worldwide.

In conclusion, Hungarian folkloric and operetta traditions are integral to the country's cultural fabric. They represent the resilience, creativity, and artistic prowess of the Hungarian people. These traditions continue to captivate audiences both in Hungary and around the world, ensuring that their legacy endures for generations to come.

Contact

TOP