Astana Opera opened its 14th theatrical season with the legendary opera Abai by Akhmet Zhubanov and Latif Khamidi, based on a libretto by Mukhtar Auezov. The season opening was dedicated to the 120th anniversary of the birth of the two outstanding composers.

Before the performance began, thematic installations were presented in the theatre foyer. The artists recreated the creative collaboration of the opera’s three creators. To the song “Aittım sälem, Qalamqas,” the choir and audience joined the performers, after which the company invited the guests into the auditorium.

The opera Abai has long been a hallmark of Kazakhstan’s operatic art. The production was created by Kazakh and Italian masters. The creative team includes consulting director and People’s Artist of Kazakhstan Yesmukhan Obayev, chief chorus master and Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Dautov, director Giancarlo del Monaco, set designer Ezio Frigerio, and costume designer Franca Squarciapino.

On the opening night, the orchestra was conducted by Honored Worker of Kazakhstan and laureate of the State Prize of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Alan Buribayev.

At the conclusion, flowers were presented to the Astana Opera company on behalf of the Head of State, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

During its 14th season, the theatre will present several premieres, including the ballets Charlie and Irene and Tomiris, as well as the musical production for children Arman.

The theatre’s touring activities will also continue. The State Theatre of Nations will present the productions Uncle Vanya and Tartuffe on the stage of Astana Opera. The ballet company will travel to Italy on tour with Giselle and The Nutcracker. Performances by the company in cities across Kazakhstan are also planned.

The second performance of the opera Abai will take place on September 5.