The International Theatre Festival «BIKEN FEST» III, which became a true celebration of diverse art and stage mastery, has come to a close. The creative competition, dedicated to immortalizing the name of the great stage actress, People’s Artist of Kazakhstan, laureate of the State Prizes of the USSR and Kazakhstan, Biken Rimova, was held with the support of the Zhetysu Region Akimat and organized by the Biken Rimova Drama Theatre.

This year’s festival carried special significance as it coincided with the 50th anniversary of the theatre company. From September 13 to 17, it captivated audiences and gave new impetus to the cultural life of the region. Theatre troupes from across Kazakhstan, as well as from near and far abroad, took to the stage, presenting their best productions.

The jury of the festival was chaired by People’s Artist of Kazakhstan, renowned stage and screen actor Doskhan Zholzhaksynov.

By decision of the jury, the Grand Prix, along with a prize of 1 million tenge, was awarded to the Abai Regional Kazakh Musical Drama Theatre for its production «Enlik-Kebek as Told by Abai», based on the heritage of the great poet. The troupe showcased artistry befitting the high status of the festival.

In the category «Best Plastic Directing», the State Drama and Comedy Theatre named after Azerbaijan Mambetov was recognized for its production «Charlie Chaplin» and received 600,000 tenge. Actor Tolebek Konbay of the Akmola Regional Drama Theatre was awarded «Best Male Role» and 500,000 tenge for his masterful portrayal of several characters in the play «The Road to Kyoto». Azerbaijani actress Oksana Rasulova won «Best Female Role» and 500,000 tenge for her performance in «Letter from an Unknown Woman», which conveyed subtle emotions and deep feelings.

The Bukhara State Musical Drama Theatre (Uzbekistan) was honored for its outstanding ensemble performance, receiving the prize for «Best Acting Ensemble» and 500,000 tenge. Kyrgyz actor Nurlan Salidinov and Georgian actress Kristine Beruashvili were awarded for the best supporting roles, each receiving 300,000 tenge. Theatres of Shymkent and East Kazakhstan, which impressed audiences with their stage solutions, received the nominations «Best Musical Design» and «Best Scenography», each accompanied by a prize of 200,000 tenge.

The high level of organization, the dedication of stage masters to their craft, and their creative search not only expanded the horizons of Kazakh theatre art but also once again elevated the name of Biken Rimova in the memory of the people. Thus, «BIKEN FEST» has become a vivid testament to spiritual renewal and will remain in the hearts of art lovers for years to come.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/zhetysu-archive/press/news/details/1070282?lang=kk