Performing Arts students build confidence, creativity and connections on Budapest cultural exchange programme

Performing Arts students at Capital City College (CCC) recently enjoyed a trip to Hungary as part of a two-week cultural exchange with Nemes Nagy Ágnes Művészeti Szakgimnázium in Budapest.

Now in its second year, the popular annual exchange programme is a well-established partnership between Capital City College and the Budapest school, first developed in 2024. Open to Level 3 and 4 UAL Performing Arts students at CCC’s Holloway campus, the programme is designed to build students’ artistic skills and learn about international aspects of the Performing Arts industry, while learning in a different country.

CCC student Kai Dorovko reflected on the experience.

“The trip was incredibly enjoyable, and working with the Hungarian students was a real pleasure. I rarely encounter young creatives with such drive and enthusiasm, they fully committed themselves to every task. Even during breaks, I would often see individuals or groups practising eccentric dance routines, which was a joy to photograph and film.”

During their stay in the busy capital, CCC students took part in an inspiring range of activities including drama games with Hungarian students, a ballroom dance workshop, an actor‑musicians session and a voice class led by our own CCC Performing Arts lecturers.

Eager for every chance to soak up the city’s culture, students also explored the Danube River, drawing inspiration from Budapest’s culture, history, and atmosphere to inspire their creative work.

A cultural exchange is truly a two-way street, and our students brought London creativity with them, from Afrobeats influences to work inspired by Sarah Kane, Harold Pinter, and powerful pieces of original student writing.

Kai said: “They introduced us to a variety of traditional Hungarian acting games and exercises, and in return, we shared some of our own approaches. Elliot Edney and I wrote a short scene in the style of Harold Pinter, one of Britain’s most influential playwrights, titled ‘Two Deer’.

“This was embraced by the group and developed into several movement pieces. Mati Gajcy led a workshop inspired by Sarah Kane’s Crave, while Princess Jayeola, Sarai Gyechie, and Savana Mode choreographed an Afrobeats dance that was very well received. There were also several other contributions from members of the group, all of which added to the richness of the experience.”

Kai also spoke about the challenges of adapting to a different theatrical tradition.

“While the trip was enjoyable, it was also appropriately challenging. The Hungarian approach to theatre is highly physical, with a strong emphasis on movement as a primary form of communication. Personally, I tend to begin my process with text, whereas they often explore ideas through movement in the early stages. At times, I felt I was falling behind in this area due to my lack of formal training in movement. However, despite these challenges, I remained fully committed and gave my best throughout.”

The international trip showed just how impactful cross-border artistic collaboration can be.

Tim Chaundy, Curriculum Leader (Centre Schools) at Capital City College said, “The Budapest Performing Arts Trip was an amazing, energising and intense experience, especially for students travelling away from home for the first time. It was deeply inspiring and culturally significant, opening minds and building confidence.”

Interested to tread the boards and learn more about theatre and performing? Learn more about our Performing Arts courses online.

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