The Soaring Kazakh

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Nurken Abdirov, our heroic compatriot who displayed remarkable bravery during the Second World War and struck fear into the enemy skies.

In honour of this significant date, the creative team of the Saken Seifullin Karaganda Regional Kazakh Drama Theatre, recipient of the Order of Friendship of Peoples, has begun preparing a production dedicated to the centenary of the Hero of the Soviet Union, Nurken Abdirov. The play was written by Kenges Zhumabekov, laureate of the State Prize of the Republic of Kazakhstan, actor and playwright.

To bring The Soaring Kazakh to life, the theatre has invited one of Kazakhstan’s most renowned directors, Kuandyk Kassymov, laureate of the Chingiz Aitmatov International Prize. The production design is led by Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan Yesengeldi Tuyakov. The role of the brave pilot will be performed by actors Bauyrzhan Nurmambetov and Akai Zhumamuratov, while the part of the hero’s mother will be portrayed by distinguished actresses Nurzhibek Zhansugirova and Bizhamal Kemalova.

Nurken Abdirov was a 22-year-old falcon who soared from his native Karaganda, a land rich in heritage. For his unparalleled courage and fearless heroism on the battlefield, he was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. Nurken was not only a valiant pilot but also a sharp-eyed falcon who struck the enemy like lightning from the heavens.

He belonged to a generation of passionate young patriots, ready to sacrifice everything for their homeland. A true son of the Kazakh nation, Nurken reached for the skies, his dreams as high as his flight. This brave son of Kazakhstan gave his life for the happiness and freedom of humankind. His name will forever live in the memory of the people.