The Birlik Ensemble presented the choreographic concert-performance “Ömir-Kazyna” (“Life is a Treasure”) to the audience.
The concert program featured choreographic compositions such as “Zharyskazan”, “Shildekhana”, “Saukele. Bride. Bridal Dowry”, “Kyz Uzatu”, “Toy. Betashar”, “Mai Kuyiu. Salem Salu”, “Akku”, “Amanat”, “Zher-Ana” and many others.
The event also featured the Kazakh State Folklore Ensemble “Astana Sazy”, the ethno-folklore ensemble “Zhoshy”, and the State Theatre “Astana Musical”.
The direction of the performance certainly deserves special attention. The depth of the narrative, accompanied by a voice-over, was visually enhanced by screen projections explaining the importance and enduring nature of the traditions and rituals presented on stage. Conveying such profound values of Kazakh history through dance represents a unique artistic synthesis of perception and reflection.
By using every available artistic tool, the performers managed to reach the consciousness of every spectator. Feelings of pride, inspiration, and admiration swept through the audience like waves, impressing them with the scale of the idea and the unique performance style of the artists. Sound, dance, costumes, lighting, screens, and narration all merged into a single dramaturgical concept: life is a treasure.
It was somewhat surprising to realize that the stage action was designed for just one hour of concert duration. Perhaps time simply flew by, or perhaps the audience’s mind struggled to keep up with the unfolding storyline. Yet one truth became clear: our culture is our foundation, our greatest treasure, our pride, and our mission in preserving the continuity of generations.
“Life is a Treasure” is a profound and holistic stage statement about the role of women in traditional culture, the continuity of generations, and the value of human life, expressed through the language of dance and music.
The BIRLIK Ensemble was created to form an international artistic group that studies and professionally performs dances of the peoples of the world accompanied by live instrumental music, while also introducing young Kazakhstani audiences to the culture and art of different nations.
The ensemble’s artistic director is Anel Marabayeva. Her repertoire includes about 30 folk dances reflecting the richness of cultural heritage.
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