Nauryz, the celebration of spring renewal, takes on a special resonance at Astana Opera this year. On 21 and 22 March, Sydyq Mukhamedzhanov’s Aisulu – the first Kazakh comic opera with a contemporary plot – will be presented at the Grand Hall. The festivities continue on 24 March at the Kulyash Baiseitova Chamber Hall with the celebratory concert, Armysyn, az-Nauryz!
The spirit of the opera Aisulu mirrors the very philosophy of Nauryz – a celebration that transcends borders and unites people. Stage director Yerenbak Toikenov has prepared a surprise that begins before the first notes of the overture even sound. For a time, the opera house foyer will be transformed into a bustling railway station, foreshadowing the plot and immersing the audience in an atmosphere of adventure. In keeping with ancient traditions of hospitality, guests will be greeted with bauyrsaqs and other national delicacies, creating the warmth of a large-scale family gathering. Only then will the audience take their seats for the spectacle to continue on stage.
On 24 March, the festive celebrations move to the Kulyash Baiseitova Chamber Hall for Armysyn, az-Nauryz! – a concert dedicated to the arrival of spring. With a stage set in traditional style and immersive theatrical touches, the evening promises a warm, intimate atmosphere where the audience is more than just spectators. The programme features a blend of folk songs you can sing along to, traditional kyuis, arias and duets from works by Kazakh composers, and contemporary pieces celebrating nature’s awakening. It is a rare chance to join the performers in song and truly feel the magic of the season.
The performers include Honoured Artists of Kazakhstan Zhannat Baktay and Galiya Baigazinova – who also curated the evening – alongside Dinmukhamed Koshkinbayev, Artur Gabdiyev, Sultan Bakytzhan, Merei Kadyrkhanov, Talgat Allabirinov, Saltanat Muratbekova, Assem Sembina, Yelena Ganzha, Ulpan Aubakirova, Leila Alamanova, Sara Sadygulova, and many other soloists. Vocal performances will interweave with the traditional sounds of the dombyra, performed by Abylaikhan Mamyrbayev and Nurmukhamed Zhakanov, alongside pianists Aishabibi Askarova and Irina Kurguzkina. Together with the ensemble and hosts Tolganai Artykbayeva and Zhanibek Avlenov, the performers will bring the spirit of spring to life on stage.
All performances begin at 5pm.
