The city now hosts music events regularly
In the heart of Kazakhstan, the city of Astana recently played host to a spectacular event that combined theatre, music, and circus arts - the Festival of Urban Performances. This massive spectacle took place across various locations, including the Central Park, Jetisu Park, and the city square, as well as open-air stages in parks and courtyards.
Over 100 artists from different regions of Kazakhstan and Russia participated in this grand event, with renowned ensembles such as High Brothers, Artishock, Murtuganov Show, ArtLab, Limpopo, Theater of Mimic and Dance DNE, and many more taking centre stage. The concert "Astana - arman qala" was held on the stage of the capital's amphitheater by the Esil River, while the Central Ensemble of the Ministry of Defense and the Central Ensemble of the Border Guard Service of the National Security Committee also performed at these open-air stages during the festival.
The festival was not limited to the city's main locations. Concerts were also held on platforms like "Aigyrjal" and "Zhagalau", in Kokshetau Park, Korghalzhyn Square, and the city square. A youth concert, Jastar Energy, featuring popular Kazakh pop stars, was held on the "Qazaq Eli" square. The Presidential Orchestra of the State Guard Service, the Central Military Orchestra, and the Central Ensemble of the National Military-Patriotic Center of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Kazakhstan performed at "Gashyqtar", "Zheruiyq", and "Jetisu" parks.
Traditional holiday concerts were held in all six districts of the city, with music played everywhere during the festivities. Concerts were even held in the residential areas of Zheleznodorozhny, Oneris, Kazgorodok, Kirovsky, Promyshlenny, Internatsionalny, and Otau.
In addition to the Festival of Urban Performances, Astana was alive with music during the Capital Day celebrations. While there is no specific information about a Capital Day Music Festival, music-related events such as ALEM FEST 2025, OYU STAGE 2025, and the BaiQymyz National Festival have recently taken place or are upcoming in the city.
The festival concluded with a gala concert on the "Qazaq Eli" square, marking the end of an unforgettable week of music and arts in Astana. The event was a testament to the city's vibrant cultural scene and its commitment to promoting the arts.
Meanwhile, in neighbouring Kyrgyzstan, the Meikin Asia International Festival of Pop Music Performers is set to take place from July 20 to 22 along the Lake Issyk-Kul shores. This festival features emerging artists from over 25 countries, including the renowned Dimash Kudaibergen. While this event is not in Kazakhstan, it serves as a reminder of the rich musical heritage and talent that spans the region.
Beloved compositions about the capital, such as "Astanauyly", "Astanakeshi", "Armandastar", "Astana", "Su tasushy qiz", "Altynai", "Merekenmen, elim", "Qazaqstan", were played throughout the festival, adding a nostalgic touch to the lively celebrations. The Honor Guard Orchestra even performed on a boat cruising the Esil River, providing a unique and memorable musical experience for festival-goers.
The Festival of Urban Performances was indeed a spectacular event that showcased the best of Kazakhstan's musical talent and cultural heritage. As the city continues to grow and develop, it is clear that the arts will play a significant role in its future.
The Festival of Urban Performances in Astana showcased a mix of entertainment and music, with over 100 artists performing across various locations, including open-air stages that featured renowned ensembles like High Brothers and Artishock.
Popular Kazakh pop stars took center stage at the youth concert, Jastar Energy, held at the "Qazaq Eli" square, while traditional holiday concerts were also held in residential areas like Zheleznodorozhny and Otau.