GYÖRGY SZAKÁLY

Rector of the Hungarian Dance Academy since July 1, 2011: György Szakály
Mr. Szakály studied at the Hungarian Dance Academy, from where he graduated in 1976. Than he obtained a one-year scholarship to the Vaganova Ballet Academy. He became member of the Hungarian National Ballet (company of the Opera) in 1977. Besides guest performer with the Hungarian National Ballet he was guest soloist of the Dortmund Opera from 1985 to 1988, and first soloist of the Bonn Opera between 1988-1991.
His major roles:
Giselle – Albert
Swan Lake – Prince
The Nutcracker – Prince
Romeo and Juliette – Mercutio
Midsummer night’sdream – Oberon
Sylvia – Orion
Don Quijote – Espada
Anna Karenina – Karenin
Spartacus – Spartacus
Zorba – Zorba
La fille mal gardée – Simone
The Miracolous Mandarin – Mandarin
Balanchine: Symphony in C;  AgonBesides dancing Mr. Szakaly is also active as ballet master and choreographer.
Prizes and awards (selection):
1983 – best dancer of the season (prize by the Hungarian Dance Association)
1984 – Liszt-prize (prize of the Ministry for Culture for musicians and dancers)
1985 – Merited Artist (title offered by the Ministry for Culture)
1991 – Kossuth Prize (highest prize for artists)
2000 – Outstanding Artist (title offered by the Ministry for Culture)
2014 – Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary, Commander’s Cross

After earlier teaching activities he returned to the Hungarian Dance Academy in 2003 where he is currently Professor. After serving as Deputy Rector for several years, he was nomineted Rector during summer 2011