“Shalkyma” Ethnic Dance Ensemble

“Shalkyma” is a troupe with exceptional creative sophistication. Frequent tours and concerts as part of the permanent delegations of the State Academic Philharmonic of the capital have significantly contributed to the ensemble’s growth in choreographic potential. This profile could elaborate at length: as a state ensemble, “Shalkyma” has repeatedly been recognized as a laureate, diploma winner, and champion of various international competitions and festivals. Indeed, the scope of their performances and the grandeur of their productions are impressive. At the same time, as a competitive ensemble within the state philharmonic, the dancers of “Shalkyma” stand out for their creativity, versatility, and willingness to experiment.

The dancers are true virtuosos of the folk genre. The ensemble’s repertoire has been highly appreciated both by international audiences during receptions of foreign delegations and by domestic audiences at concerts featuring Kazakhstan’s pop stars, where “Shalkyma” is always a frequent guest. Few concerts in the capital occur without their participation: colorful and emotional performances never fail to captivate the audience. The diversity of the “Shalkyma” folk dance ensemble’s creative palette is reinforced by the high professionalism of the permanent constituent groups: the traditional music ensemble “Korkyt” and the folk music ensemble “Sary Arka”.

The ensemble’s performance culture extends beyond Kazakh dances: their repertoire also includes impressive numbers from the peoples of Bashkiria, Belarus, Korea, Tajikistan, Yakutia, and many others. The troupe is especially warmly received in Russia, the UAE, Turkey, European countries, and the Middle East. “Shalkyma” rightly holds the status of the best in the field of folk performance in Kazakhstan’s capital, largely thanks to the efforts of the long-standing artistic director Abdurasul Yesekeev — holder of the Order of Kurmet and a distinguished cultural figure.

Members of the “Shalkyma” folk dance ensemble are graduates of the country’s leading creative universities. Continuing the great legacy of historical figures in folk dance, they bring to the stage vibrant and lively performances, infused with love for both the art and the audience.