Kazakhstan's musicals bring national stories to the modern stage
Musical theatres in Kazakhstan are reaching new heights and new audiences. Kazakh musicals have gained popularity in recent years, especially among younger audiences. At venues like the Youth Musical Theatre in Astana and the Astana Musical troupe under Kazakhconcert, national legends are brought to life through contemporary performance.
In this episode of Modern Nomads, we explore the dynamic rise of Kazakh musicals. From the heartfelt drama of Gaukhar Tas to the family performance of Aldar Kose, these productions reflect a growing interest for national storytelling on stage.
We speak with directors Askhat Mayemirov and Yesslam Nurtazin, who are reshaping the genre with a blend of classical influence and Kazakh identity.
Today, Kazakh musicals are striking a chord with audiences across the country and beyond, showing that national art can be timeless and contemporary.
Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder has defended Bruce Springsteen during a concert amid attacks by Donald Trump on the legendary singer.
Vedder spoke out in support of Springsteen during the band's show at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, saying: '(Trump's) response had nothing to do with the issues. They didn't talk about one of those issues, they didn't have a conversation about one of those issues. They didn't debate about any one of those issues. All that we heard were personal attacks and threats that nobody else should try to use their microphones or voice in public or they'll be shut down.'
He continued: 'Now that's not allowed in this country that we call America. Part of free speech is open discussion. Part of democracy is healthy public discourse. The name-calling is so beneath us. Bruce has always been as pro-American with his values and liberty, and his justice has always remained intact. And I'm saying this now to be sure this freedom to speak will still exist in a year or two when we come back to this microphone.'
Springsteen previously called Trump's administration 'corrupt, incompetent, and treasonous' during the opening night of his European tour on 14 May.
In response, Trump ranted online about Springsteen, calling The Boss a 'dried out prune' and threatened the musician by saying Springsteen 'ought to KEEP HIS MOUTH SHUT until he gets back into the Country.'
The American Federation of Musicians responded to Trump's comments, with the organisation's president Tino Gagliardi saying: 'Musicians have the right to freedom of expression, and we stand in solidarity with all our members.'
Since then, Trump has called for an investigation into Springsteen and his support for Kamala Harris. He also criticised Beyoncé and Bono.
Adding his name to list of Springsteen defenders is veteran American legend Neil Young, who previously shared his fears about being barred from returning to the US after criticising Trump.
Yesterday (20 May), Young shared a new blog post on the Neil Young Archives website, where he defended Springsteen and Taylor Swift, who Trump has also slammed.
'Bruce and thousands of musicians think you are ruining America. You worry about that instead of the dyin' kids in Gaza. That's your problem. I am not scared of you. Neither are the rest of us.'
He continued: 'You shut down FEMA when we needed it most. That's your problem Trump. STOP THINKING ABOUT WHAT ROCKERS ARE SAYING. Think about saving America from the mess you made.'
'Taylor Swift is right. So is Bruce. You know how I feel. You are more worried about yourself than AMERICA. Wake up Trump!! Remember what the White House is?'
He finished his blog entry by writing: 'You are forgetting your real job. You work for us. Wake up Republicans! This guy is out of control. We need a real president!'
Neil Young is set to return to Europe this summer as part of his 'Love Earth' world tour, which includes dates at Glastonbury and a headline slot at BST Hyde Park.
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