ASTANA—Spend the weekend enjoying nostalgic concerts featuring beloved artists or feel the romance of great stories through captivating ballet performances. This weekend is great for embracing the season’s excitement and enjoying cultural events.
Shymbulak Mountain Resort. Photo credit: Shutterstock
Astana
“December Rain” ballet on Dec. 7
“December Rain” tells the poignant love story of composer Chopin and writer George Sand. As a renowned romantic composer, Chopin’s life intertwined with Sand, a bold writer who used a male pseudonym to succeed in 19th-century France. Their romance, filled with more sorrow than joy, remains one of the most unforgettable love stories.
Photo credit: Astana Ballet
Venue: Astana Ballet; 43, Uly Dala Avenue. Tickets are available here.
Soul Therapy concert on Dec. 7
Bagzhan Oktyabr, one of Kazakhstan’s celebrated artists, became famous through his Instagram videos, where he performed in some of the world’s most beautiful locations.
His concert series, Soul Therapy, showcases the rich and emotive sounds of the cello. Audiences can look forward to a mix of iconic film scores, traditional Kazakh melodies, timeless classical pieces, and other heartfelt compositions. The series has transcended Kazakhstan, captivating audiences in the Kyrgyz Republic, Uzbekistan, and Türkiye.
Venue: Qazaqstan Central Concert Hall; 10/1, Mangilik El Avenue. Tickets are available here.
“L’elisir d’amore” opera on Dec. 8
“L’elisir d’amore” is a delightful comic opera known for its enchanting melodies. Composed in just two weeks, its premiere at Teatro della Canobbiana in Milan was a surprising success. The opera masterfully blends old opera buffa traditions with classic romantic melodrama, and some of its arias are now considered opera classics.
Photo credit: astanaopera.kz
Venue: Astana Opera; 1, Dinmukhamed Konaev Street. Tickets are available here.
Almaty
Allstars Music Fest on Dec. 8
Prepare to immerse yourself in a nostalgic experience as three beloved global artists—Blue, K-Maro, and Jay Sean—take the stage. This concert promises to transport you to a cherished era with unforgettable performances and a vibrant atmosphere. Relive the magic of their greatest hits, feel the energy of the crowd and enjoy an evening filled with music that has defined a generation. It’s a night of pure nostalgia and unforgettable memories.
Photo credit: ticketon.kz
Venue: Almaty Arena; 7, Nurkent Microdistrict. Tickets are available here.
“Giselle” ballet on Dec. 8
“Giselle” emerged during the romantic ballet era, representing its pinnacle achievement. Reflecting a period fascinated by supernatural tales, the ballet captures the theme of young men torn between mundane existence and seductive beings from an unreal realm, such as undines and sylphs. The legend of the Villis girls, betrayed by their lovers and perishing before marriage, perfectly suited such performances. Created over a century and a half ago, “Giselle” remains relevant today, captivating audiences with its poignant storyline and rich blend of solo and ensemble dance performances.
Photo credit: almaty.theatrehd.com
Venue: Kazakh National Opera and Ballet Theater named after Abai; 110, Kabanbay Batyr Street. Tickets are available here.
