Giacomo Puccini’s opera La Bohème is a recognized masterpiece of world opera. Its premiere took place in 1897 at the La Fenice theatre in Venice. Puccini wrote it based on his own life experiences—he lived in poverty for many years. The opera tells a story of emotional richness, pure love, faith, and hope.

On February 15, this magnificent performance was staged at the Abai Kazakh National Opera and Ballet Theatre in Almaty. Leading soloists of Kazakh opera shone in their debuts.

Diva Zarina Altynbayeva revealed a new facet of her voice in the lyric-dramatic role of Mimi. In her debut, Zarina embodied beauty like a true Parisian. Bold high notes, exquisite acting, and femininity merged into one.

Nurgalym Amanbai – a wonderful young tenor and a recent debutant. He is a laureate of the Bibigul Tulegenova, Operalia, and Hibla Gerzmava competitions. The role of Rodolfo is one of the most romantic and profound, and Nurgalym delivered a stunning performance.

A new star also shone on our stage – Nargiz Satmukhambetova, a lyric-coloratura soprano. She has already dazzled in the roles of the Queen of the Night and Kyz Zhibek. In her debut, Nargiz embodied the light and passionate Musetta.

The production also featured renowned professional artists. The incredible baritones Andrey Tregubenko, Aidos Zhabagin, and Bekzat Abitov. The deep-voiced bass – Tair Tazhi.

Bravo to the entire ensemble, the incomparable orchestra and choir of the Abai Kazakh National Opera and Ballet Theatre, under the leadership of maestro and chief conductor Nurzhan Baibusinov, chief choirmaster Aliya Temirbekova, and the brilliant director Natalia Kagadiy!

We thank all our spectators and readers for their devotion to high art.

Sincerely, Connoisseur and Cultural Legacy Fund Ambassador – Rakhimov Abilai