The most significant development program in the history of the University of Theatre and Film Arts has been launched. The first step of the program was renaming the institutes of the University, and moving facilities to refurbished, modern locations from February — the institution ínnopunced to the MTI on Friday.

According to the statement, the university's film institute will continue to operate under the name Zsigmond Vilmos Institute for Motion Picture. The name pays tribute to the Oscar and Emmy Award winner, internationally recognised cameraman who graduated from the university's predecessor in 1955. The term motion picture is being adopted in line with international trends and expectations — the announcement reads.

Training in the art of motion pictures will move from a building of about 2254 square metres in Szentkirályi Street to a building within the former Duna Television headquarters in Buda. The new building will offer almost twice as much space and has been newly renovated. The spacious studios are equipped with modern, high-quality cinematographic equipment.

University of Theatre and Film Arts, 8th District, 32 Szentkirályi Street, where training in film used to happen (Photo: Wikimedia)

Training in theatre will continue in the buildings used by the University on Szentkirályi Street and Rákóczi Street. The institute has been renamed Sinkovits Imre Instutre for the Theatrical Arts. “By choosing his name, we honour the Kossuth Prize-winning actor, who was also named an Actor of the Nation"  — the statement continued, adding that the famous actor studied at the school from 1947.

The third institute that oversees theoretical studies has been named the Antal Németh Institute of Drama Theory. Antal Németh is one of the most significant figures and directors in the history of Hungarian theatre and was director of the National Theatre from 1935 to 1944. 

The renovation of the rehearsal halls, classrooms, offices and all other spaces of the two buildings will be fully renovated within two months, after decades of neglect – the university's leadership added.

As part of the infrastructure development efforts, new separate halls of residence are to be created, housing 70 students, instead of the previous 50. The statement also notes that the Uránia National Film Theatre will serve both theatrical and motion picture training in the future.

Source: MTI | Abridged in translation

Opening photo: The entrance to the University of Theatre and Film Arts at Vas Street 2/D (Photo: Balázs. Both/Pestbuda.hu)