Kazakh Folk Dance Ensemble: Cultural Ambassadors
Kazakh Folk Dance Ensemble Birlik Aims to Become a Symbol of Harmony and Cultural Diplomacy
The Kazakh folk dance ensemble Birlik (Unity) is on a mission to set a new standard of excellence and professionalism in music while also promoting harmony and cultural diplomacy. Anel Marabayeva, the choreographer and artistic director of the ensemble, shared her vision in an interview with The Astana Times.
Birlik, which represents a unique blend of international folk dances and live music, was created on March 1 under the initiative of Kazakh Minister of Culture and Information, Aida Balayeva. The ensemble serves as a bridge to cultural understanding in diversity and showcases the richness of Kazakhstan’s multinational population.
Collaborating with multinational choreographers and musicians, Birlik aims to enrich its global perception and offer a vibrant repertoire of national dances, live music, and folk instruments. Operating under the direction of Tair Karateyev at QazaqConcert, Birlik integrates creative groups such as Gulder, Astana Musical, and Astana Sazy in its performances.
Marabayeva highlighted the upcoming international competition in Türkiye in July, where Birlik will represent Kazakhstan with four Kazakh dances and her solo performances. Each dance performance, such as Zhiger, Kui Shashu, Mereke Bi, and Qazaq Batyrlary, tells a unique cultural story and showcases the ensemble’s talent and creativity.
The significance and sacredness of Kazakh dance were also emphasized by Marabayeva, who explained how each movement in Kazakh dance reflects elements of nature and culture, symbolizing the interconnectedness of life and the universe. She shared her efforts to create images of Kazakh women through dance, honoring their resilience and importance in Kazakh culture.
The formation and recruitment process of the ensemble were led by Karlygash Azhieva, with key contributions from the Kazakh National Academy of Choreography and Astana Opera Academy. The ensemble aims to expand its team and continue its pursuit of excellence on the international stage.
Marabayeva, a solo dancer with a rich background in Kazakh dance, expressed her passion for sharing joy and love through dance, highlighting the importance of performing with a higher purpose. She encouraged her team to dance not just for the audience but as a dialogue with God, celebrating life and spreading happiness to others.
As Birlik strives to become a symbol of harmony and cultural diplomacy, the ensemble looks forward to engaging with sponsors and collaborators to support its mission and elevate the cultural heritage of Kazakhstan on the world stage.
