Letters

GEORGE E. PATAKI

STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
ALBANY 12224 

GEORGE E. PATAKI 
GOVERNOR 

May 29, 1998

It is a pleasure to extend greetings to the North American Tour of the Budapest Ensemble from Hungary and to all those involved in the presentation of “CSÁRDÁS, The Tango of the East.” 

As an American proud of my Hungarian heritage, I often marvel at the beautiful music and dance of my ancestors. The richest treasures brought to the new homeland by Hungarians and all immigrants may well be their songs, dances and music, which have been passed down through the generations. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I welcome the Ensemble as it begins its nationwide tour. The excitement and exuberance evoked by the CSÁRDÁS are certain to be welcomed and enjoyed by American audiences, who will also learn about the beautiful folklore of Central Europe. 

Congratulations on your undertaking of this exciting project. Best wishes for a memorable and successful tour. 

Very truly yours, 

Governor George E. Pataki

The Ambassador of Hungary

The Ambassador of Hungary

Mr. John Luckacovic 
Vice President 
Columbia Artists Management 
165 West 57″‘ Street 
New York, NY 10019 

April 29, 1998

Dear Mr. Luckacovic,

I am delighted to give my full support to the 2000 tour of the Budapest Ensemble from Hungary. Hungary is proud of its wonderful folk culture and it has been a pleasure to share our culture with interested audiences. “CSÁRDÁS – the Tango of the East” will be a most important undertaking for dedicated and very talented artists and organizers in Europe and North America alike. 

The Budapest Ensemble is one of the premier folk ensembles from Hungary. Its distinguished perform-ing history around the world has been a jewel among our professional performing ensembles. Their show, ‘CSÁRDÁS – the Tango of the East” will be a most enjoyable performance for a audiences. 

I personally congratulate you and wish you great success in presenting “CSÁRDÁS – the Tango of the East” in North America. I am convinced that this show will be the highlight of the 2000 Theater Season presenting Central European Folklore at its absolute best. 

Sincerely yours, 

Dr. György Bánlaki