On May 29, the stage of the blooming Abay Kazakh National Opera and Ballet Theatre once again welcomed Giuseppe Verdi’s great opera Rigoletto, performed for the first time in many years. The performance was marked by striking debuts, a stunning production, and thunderous applause from the audience.
Rigoletto is one of Verdi’s early major lyrical-dramatic operas. Written by the already-acclaimed maestro, the opera quickly gained popularity despite the controversial plot originally penned by Victor Hugo in his play Le roi s'amuse. Verdi’s works are always rich in texture, yet his distinct style is unmistakable. This opera masterfully explores the themes of revenge, fate, dishonor, and the boomerang effect. These ideas were brought to life vividly through the interpretation of Kazakhstan’s stage masters.
The charming Damir Sadouakasov, in his debut as the Duke of Mantua, won the hearts of the audience. He proved himself a true professional from the very first aria, “Questa o quella,” to the magnificent quartet and the iconic “La donna è mobile.” Congratulations to Damir on his brilliant debut!
Another debutant, Yevgeny Shagarov, as the hunchbacked jester Rigoletto, delivered an incredibly powerful performance. With his rich baritone, he captivated the vast auditorium. After the tragic and soul-stirring aria “La ra… Cortigiani vil razza,” the audience gave him a prolonged ovation, shouting “Bravo!” again and again. While the curse and thirst for vengeance returned to Rigoletto as a tragic fate, sincere audience appreciation returned to Yevgeny Shagarov as the fruit of his years of dedication. Deep respect to this wonderful devotee of opera!
The role of Gilda, Rigoletto’s daughter, was performed with grace and purity by Natalia Mezina. Her brilliant high notes, light yet dramatic performance, and meticulously crafted character made a lasting impression. She executed the most difficult coloratura soprano arias, such as “Caro nome” and “Tutte le feste al tempio,” as well as duets “Si, Vendetta!” and “Addio, addio!” with exceptional professionalism and precision.
The cast also featured the velvety bass voices of Ilyas Artagaliev and Azamat Malyshov, our theatre’s celebrated baritones Tolegen Rakhymbaev and Aidos Zhabagin, rising opera stars Islam Khamzaev and Aruzhan Tolepbergen, and the captivating mezzo-soprano Oksana Davidenko.
Special recognition goes to the breathtaking orchestra of the Abay Theatre, conducted by virtuoso Nurzhan Baibusinov.
On June 1, this opera will return to the stage once more. The lead roles will be performed by People’s Artist of Kazakhstan Talgat Kuzembayev, Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Zhan Tapin, and Nargiz Satmukhambetova. We wish them the best of luck!
Thank you to the theatre for an unforgettable performance and a true masterpiece. Myng algys! (A thousand thanks!)
With respect,
Cultural Ambassador and Foundation Representative –
Abylai Rakhimov
