Drifters (Tántorgók) by the Fitos Dezső Dance Company is a 75-minute contemporary dance-theater production performed by nine male dancers. Rooted in Hungarian and Eastern European folk traditions, the work blends folk dance, live music, theatrical movement, and striking stage imagery to explore themes of migration, memory, resilience, and the search for belonging. Set against a historically inspired backdrop and performed in period-influenced costumes, Drifters evokes the physical and emotional realities of departure, labor, displacement, and hope. Rather than presenting folk traditions as artifacts of the past, the production reimagines them as a contemporary theatrical language that resonates with audiences across cultures and generations.

Private ferry transportation from the ferry terminal behind Castle Clinton (on the waterfront side of Battery Park) is included with your ticket. Guests are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow sufficient time for required security screening before boarding.

Guests should arrive at the ferry terminal behind Castle Clinton by 6:45 PM to allow time for required security screening before boarding. The private ferry will depart promptly at 7:15 PM, and late arrivals may not be accommodated.

Yes. Wine, non-alcoholic refreshments, and a selection of substantial hors d'oeuvres will be served at the welcome reception on Ellis Island prior to the performance.

The Legacy of Hungarians in the United States is a nationwide exhibition created in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States. Through personal stories, historical artifacts, photographs, and multimedia experiences, it explores the many ways Hungarian immigrants and their descendants have shaped American life over the past 250 years, from science, business, and the arts to public service, sports, and community leadership. Designed as both a traveling physical exhibition and an interactive digital experience, the project invites audiences to discover the enduring impact of Hungarian Americans while connecting local communities across the United States.

Drifters will be performed on a custom stage designed and transported from Hungary specifically for the production, within the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

The evening includes transportation to and from Ellis Island, a welcome reception, and the performance itself. Guests should plan for the full event experience from approximately 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The performance itself will begin at 9:00 PM.

The performance is suitable for a general audience. Children under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult.

Yes. Ellis Island and the Immigration Museum where the performance will take place is accessible to guests with mobility needs.

Smart casual attire is recommended. Comfortable footwear is encouraged, as guests will walk between the ferry and the performance venue. October evenings on New York Harbor can be cool, so guests may wish to bring a light jacket or wrap. A complimentary coat check will be available at the venue.

The story of Drifters takes place on Ellis Island, making the museum an extraordinary setting for the production's U.S. debut. By staging the performance where millions of immigrants entered the United States, the work's themes of migration, memory, and belonging take on even greater resonance.

The event will proceed rain or shine. Ferry transportation and all performance activities take place in covered or indoor spaces.

Absolutely. If you're unable to join us on Ellis Island but would still like to support the U.S. debut of Drifters, you can make a tax-deductible contribution to the Tulipán Foundation here.