Abai

Dedicated to the 175th anniversary of the great poet Abai, Mukhtar Auezov’s tragedy «Abai» not only reveals the significance of Abai Qunanbaiuly’s life and literary legacy, but also masterfully depicts the social and communal realities of Kazakh life in his era - a time marked by disputes, divisions, and class conflict.

The play captures Abai’s moral strength, poetic spirit, and his fight for the enlightenment and liberation of his people. It reflects the clash between Abai and the feudal-clan system, notably through his confrontation with figures like Zhirenshe and Kerim. Rich elements of oral Kazakh tradition - including poetic duels (aitys), wedding chants (zhar-zhar), blessings (bata), and farewells to the homeland - are interwoven into the narrative, offering audiences an immersive experience of the national spirit and cultural identity.