Concert by Vilmos and Dániel Gryllus, with Hungarian dance performance and traditional folk dancing

It was an incredible experience to sing Kaláka songs together in carefree joy with the Gryllus brothers and to dance with Hungarian youth from Melbourne on Sunday, November 23, in Auckland. The event hall in St. Heliers was filled with life, music, laughter, and—last but not least—plenty of delicious food! This special occasion showcased not only the strength and unity of the community, but also proved that even in this far corner of the world, we are not lacking in the wonders of Hungarian culture and folklore.

Dániel and Vilmos Gryllus transported us back to our childhood, guiding the children into the magical world of stories, poems, and songs—where wonder awaits. Every song performed by the brothers is a classic: when Tengerecki Pál, Fából faragott katona, Tigris, Maszkabál, or Nandu began to play, the energy and smiles radiating from the audience made it clear that these songs live on across generations and still bring the same pure joy to people’s faces today as they did decades ago. Dániel and Vilmos admired the landscapes of New Zealand, and in return they brought us an invaluable gift: their songs, which carried all of us back home.

The dynamic performance by the dancers of the Hungarian Cultural Circle of Melbourne created an electrifying atmosphere, and soon the audience joined them on the dance floor. The young dancers’ energy and enthusiasm were contagious—within minutes, the space filled with spinning, clapping children and adults alike, all sharing the joy of dancing together. Behind the dancers stood the dedicated work of their instructors, evident in every step and movement.

Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who took part in organizing and running the event in any capacity—this successful program is the result of our shared efforts. We also thank Ambassador Gábor Tamás Nagy for honoring our event with his presence. Special thanks to Tamás Darida, without whom the sound could not have carried as beautifully as it did; to all the enthusiastic bakers who brought eye- and taste-pleasing treats to the cake stall; and to Hungarian Twister and Hungarian Sausage Box, who ensured that no one went hungry—thank you for the delicious Hungarian specialties!

It was an afternoon we will cherish in our memories for a long time.

Vadász Viola