From epic symphonic tributes and powerful reinterpretations of Hamlet to jazz under the stars and youth forums in the mountains — this week, Central Asia brings a rich mix of music, theater, culture, and creativity. Whether you’re in Astana, Almaty, Bishkek, or Tashkent, here are the must-see events happening July 1-7.
JazzVIBE
When: July 3
Where: Astana
A vibrant evening of traditional jazz, jazz-rock, pop, and contemporary music. The program blends global hits, original compositions, and Kazakh melodies in fresh arrangements.
When: July 5
Where: Almaty
Tynda.music presents a tribute to legendary film composer Hans Zimmer, performed by a symphony orchestra and choir.
When: July 5
Where: Almaty
Shugyla Sagynbekova, a comedian from Karaganda, brings her English-language stand-up to Almaty after her sold-out solo debut in Astana. Back from Chicago, she mixes sharp humor with international flair — past guests include the former U.S. ambassador.
When: July 5-6
Where: Almaty
A powerful reinterpretation of Hamlet in Kazakh. The Danish prince, betrayed by those closest to him, seeks justice — and wrestles with eternal questions about truth, duty, and the human soul.
When: July 5-6
Where: Astana
Astana Ballet presents Carl Orff’s mystical and mesmerizing cantata Carmina Burana — a bold 20th-century masterpiece known for its dramatic power and epic score.
When: July 5-6
Where: Astana
Astana Opera stages Puccini’s beloved classic La Bohème, inspired by Henri Murger’s novel Scènes de la vie de bohème. First premiered in 1896, this moving tale of young love and loss still resonates with audiences around the world.
When: July 6
Where: Almaty
Sheree, a powerful jazz vocalist from the U.S., brings timeless jazz standards to life with her soulful voice and unique interpretation.
Exhibition: Silk and the Silk Road — From China to Kazakhstan
When: until August 8
Where: Astana
In collaboration with China’s National Silk Museum, this exhibition explores the history of silk, its cultural journey along the Silk Road, and modern interpretations by contemporary Chinese designers.
Kyrgyzstan
When: July 6
Where: Bishkek
This youth forum brings together outstanding Kyrgyz students admitted to Harvard, Oxford, MIT, and other top universities. Expect panel discussions, an essay hackathon with prizes from 4Bricks, and informal networking over dinner in the mountains.
When: July 6
Where: Bishkek
Immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture with wool crafting workshops, traditional cuisine tastings, a handmade goods fair, and folklore and ethnic performances.
When: July 6
Where: Bishkek
A special tribute to world-renowned film composer Ludovico Einaudi, performed by the chamber ensemble Tynda.Music. Experience his emotionally resonant works in an intimate live setting.
Uzbekistan
Exhibition by Dina Khodjaeva-Penson
When: until July 1
Where: Tashkent
Dina Maksovna began her journey in photography as a child, learning from her father, renowned photographer Max Penson. She worked as an assistant director to Malik Kayumov, later becoming a photojournalist for Uzbek Television. Alongside her husband, documentary filmmaker Faizulla Khodjaev, she contributed to major photo publications, including Ogonyok and Smena magazines.
Erica Komisar: Public Lecture on Mental Health
When: until July 2
Where: Tashkent
Hosted by Central Asian University, this open lecture by Erica Komisar explores how the psyche is formed, the roots of anxiety, and ways to build resilience in a changing world. Komisar is a global authority in psychology, a best-selling author, and a featured expert on WSJ, CNN, and The New York Times.
Photo Exhibition by Pavel Pankov
When: until July 4
Where: Tashkent
A chamber exhibition of 18 film photographs capturing the nature and aesthetic of Uzbekistan. Each frame is the result of thoughtful work with analog film, light, and chemistry — offering a meditative view into the region’s beauty.