Land of the Free: Celebrating 250 Years of Hungarian-American Friendship

Join us for a riveting performance that brings to life the story of Michael Kovats, the Hungarian Hero of the American Revolution. The Hungarian National Dance Ensemble presents LAND OF THE FREE, a commemorative dance performance celebrating 250 years of Hungarian-American friendship on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Charleston’s Riviera Theater. This spectacular production brings to life the remarkable story of Colonel Michael Kováts de Fabriczy, the Hungarian nobleman, hussar, and cavalry officer who fought for American independence, helped lay the foundations of the U.S. Cavalry and died defending Charleston in 1779. Through authentic Hungarian folk music, vibrant costumes, and choreography inspired by verbunkos and regional dance traditions, the performance transports audiences to the era of the American Revolution. Created by Kossuth Prize-winning artists Zoltán Zsuráfszky and Zs. Vincze Zsuzsa, LAND OF THE FREE celebrates courage, freedom, shared heritage, and the enduring bonds between Hungary and the United States.