From Register Staff

In a special performance, Hungary's national dance takes center stage at Lincoln Theater in a dynamic presentation "Csrds-the Tango of the East," a colorful extravaganza of living history.

Set to fiery gypsy music, the performers and musicians of the Budapest Ensemble bring centuries of tradition to life in a whirl of color and movement. The spirited dances and evocative costumes of this dynamic ensemble pay homage to Central Europe's rich heritage of folk artistry.

This lavish spectacle takes audiences on an illuminating journey to Central Europe, courtesy of the ancient folk tunes and dances that inspired the phenomenon that is the Csrds. Two hundred years ago, the Csrds took the region by storm. In the midst of modest court dances for the nobility (waltzes, quadrilles and polkas) emerged a vigorous dance by the people, based on thousand year old customs and accompanied by the fervent music of Gypsy musicians.

Deeply rooted in folklore, this exhilarating dance shares many characteristics with the Argentinean Tango. Like the Tango, the Csrds symbolized the national cultural identity of its people, became the emblem of the revolution against foreign oppression, and was shunned by those in power. Emerging as fashionable entertainment, the Csrds reached fad proportions at the height of its popularity. This robust, yet graceful dance is performed by a man and woman held in a tight embrace. With the male leading, the female follows her partner's movements instinctively. The result is a powerful and passionate dance that embodies the Hungarian spirit.

Due to the highly improvisational nature of the Csrds, it has exciting regional variants, and holds endless potential for new developments. A cultural treasure that has been passed down through generations of Hungarian life, the Csrds is kept alive through innumerable performances and cultural celebrations in Hungary and throughout the world.

Since its inception in 1958, the Budapest Ensemble, a company of 35, has been preserving the spirit of Central European folk music and dance through performances around the world. The members of this vibrant folk group represent the best young dancers and musicians from the region.

Artistic Director Zoltn Zsurfszki specially trains each prospective dancer until they are ready to tour with the ensemble. The dancers are also encouraged to travel to distant villages from Budapest and learn from the still living informants. Zsurfszki, a graduate of the Hungarian State Ballet Institute, was fortunate enough to receive his education during a time of heightened interest in the Hungarian folklore revival. Today, he is one of the most prominent folk artists of his generation, bringing the festive dances of Hungary to the stage in performances around the world.

Tickets for the Thursday 8 p.m. performance of "Csrds-the Tango of the East," are $28, $35 and $40, and are available at the box office. For information call 944-1300.