Kazakh Deaf Dance Troupe Secures Victory at International Festival in China
Kazakh Sensitive Theater Earns Grand Prix at International Arts Festival in China
ASTANA – The Kazakh Sensitive Theater, home to a remarkable ensemble of deaf dancers, achieved an impressive feat at the second International Competition-Festival of Culture and Arts “Lace of Tianjin 2025” held in China from April 29 to May 3. The troupe claimed three Grand Prix awards among 700 participants from across the globe.
The Kazakh team excelled with standout performances of their stylistic dance “Amanat,” an innovative modern choreography piece titled “Eye of the Heart,” and the captivating “European dance Tango.” In a remarkable display of talent, these dancers performed without hearing music, instead interpreting it through their hearts. This unique approach reinforces the idea that the essence of art transcends any limitations.
Olga Rostovshchikova, the theater’s artistic director, reflected on the meaningful experience of the competition, stating, “Participating in the competition was a valuable experience for us, allowing us to showcase our abilities, broaden our artistic horizons, and inspire talented dancers worldwide,” as she shared on Facebook.
Established in 2006 at the Regional Specialized Boarding School for Children with Hearing Impairments, the Kazakh Sensitive Theater is the only professional dance troupe in Kazakhstan specifically for dancers with hearing loss. Since 2020, the troupe has called the S. Mukanov Kazakh Musical and Drama Theater home, under the direction of Birzhan Zhalgasbayev. Over nearly two decades, the theater has garnered considerable acclaim, achieving 16 Grand Prix titles, 37 first-place finishes, and three second-place awards.
Cultural Exchange and Future Collaborations
During their visit to China, the troupe met with the head of the Department of External Relations of Tianjin and Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to China, Shakhrat Nuryshev. The ambassador commended the dancers on their exceptional achievements and underscored the value of cultural exchanges in enhancing bilateral relations.
Looking forward, the Sensitive Theater aims to collaborate with Chinese cultural organizations, including the only children’s choir for hearing-impaired youth in Tianjin. Plans are in motion for joint performances at significant events related to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), along with the organization of seminars, master classes, and educational projects.
This remarkable journey not only showcases the extraordinary capabilities of artists with disabilities but also fosters a spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding through the universal language of dance.
