On August 26, 2025, the Abay Kazakh National Opera and Ballet Theatre toured with great success on the stage of the Musa Jalil Tatar State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre in Kazan. The artists presented the premiere of Khamit Shangaliyev’s opera Khan Sultan. Golden Horde.

The tour was dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan. It was held with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Tatarstan (Russian Federation), and the Consulate General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Kazan.

Before the performance, the theatre’s director, Ainur Kopbasarova, read a welcome letter on behalf of the Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Aida Balaeva. The letter emphasised that the dynamic development of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Tatarstan occupies an important place in the multifaceted relations between the two countries, and the creative ties between their artistic collectives are a vivid example of this. The Minister expressed confidence that this premiere would serve as a source of inspiration and pride in their shared great past, while also bringing joy through engagement with the arts.

A welcoming address was also delivered by Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tatarstan (Russian Federation) Leyla Fazleeva and Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Kazan Yerlan Iskakov.

It should be noted that the process of creating this historical drama was accompanied by consultations with prominent international scholars and experts in the field of history, which ensured historical accuracy and careful attention to detail. The production was staged by renowned Italian director Davide Livermore.

The opera brought together more than 200 artists who, through live performance and vivid stage effects, created a unique atmosphere that allowed the audience not only to observe the events, but also to feel themselves as part of the historical process.

In the theatre’s foyer, a photo exhibition was displayed, introducing visitors to Kazakhstan, its role and status on the global stage, as well as its culture, picturesque landscapes, and modern architecture.

The premiere was attended by heads of foreign general and honorary consulates accredited in Kazan, government and public figures, as well as representatives of the business community, the media, and members of the Kazakh diaspora.

The performance concluded with prolonged ovations and enthusiastic reviews from music lovers, generating significant public interest and resonance.

 

Press Service of the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan