As winter tightens its grip on the land, the weekend of December 8-10 unfolds with a cozy lineup of events. In Astana, the results of French artist Adele Jelansky's six-month journey through Kazakhstan will take center stage in a captivating photo exhibition. Meanwhile, Almaty residents can look out for a dramatic rendition of a classic Korean story by a South Korean troupe, and vibe to the light electropop mix at INTROVERA’s concert.
Discover these and more weekend activities in the digest by QazMonitor below.
Astana
White Snake (白蛇: 缘起, dir Amp Wong, Zhao Ji) screening with sinologist Dilnaz Orazbekova
One day, a pale young woman named Blanca is rescued by Xuan, a humble snake catcher. Having lost her memory, Blanca decides to embark on an adventure together with her savior to unveil her true identity. Along the way, their bond deepens, and feelings between them blossom. But unbeknownst to them, fate itself dictates that they cannot be together.
NOTE: The lecture after the screening will be conducted in Russian.
Date: December 9, 5:30 p.m.
Address: Concept Art lecture hall, Kerey and Zhanibek Khans Street 5, office 23, 2nd floor
Entrance: ₸3,000
I See You Now photo exhibition by Adele Jelansky and Digital Autumn VR festival
For six months, French artist Adele Jelansky traveled throughout Kazakhstan as part of her creative and research residency. Her journey spanned from Almaty to the Altay Mountains, Mangystau and Turkistan, Shymkent, Karagandy, and finally to Astana. Here, the artist will showcase 45 photographs and digital collages that explore the concept of a landscape.
The three-day Digital Autumn will showcase VR works aiming for a heightened sense of presence, immersing viewers in imaginative virtual storytelling across diverse worlds.
NOTE: The VR works are presented in English or French, with some projects translated into Russian.
Dates:
Digital Autumn – until December 10
I See You Now – until January 7
Address: National Museum, Tauelsizdik Avenue 54
Entrance: ₸300–₸700
Almaty
The Creation of Sim Cheong play
Once upon a time, there was a girl. Her name was Sim Cheong. From an early age, she had to look for herself and her blind father. One day, she discovered that her father could be cured, but only if he made a rich offering to Buddha. Realizing they couldn't afford such a tribute, Sim Cheong heard about sea merchants who would pay anyone willing to be a sacrifice to the Indang Sea.
NOTE: The play will be staged in Korean with synchronized translation.
Date: December 9, 4:00 p.m.
Address: Republican State Academic Korean Theater, Bogenbay Batyr Street 158
Entrance: ₸1,000–₸2,500
INTROVERA concert
If this Saturday, you are looking for a chill evening, look no further than INTROVERA’s light mix of electropop. Perfect for semi-melancholic drives through the night city, long walks, and dances in the dark.
Date: December 9, 9:00 p.m.
Address: Cheers Bar, Shevchenko Street 100
Entrance: Free
Aktobe, Oral
"Climate Change and Its Impact on Women and Other Discriminated Groups" workshop
Climate change isn’t 'gender-neutral,' nor does it account for any kind of discriminated groups. The Myqty Women initiative will host workshops in Aktobe and Oral, addressing the link between gender inequality and climate change. The speakers will discuss the risks associated with climate change and ways to minimize them.
Dates:
Aktobe – December 10, 13:00 p.m.
Oral – December 9, 10:00 a.m.
NOTE: The address for both events will be made available only after registration on the Myqty Women’s official Instagram.
Entrance: Free
Shymkent
Il trovatore opera by Giuseppe Verdi
The tale of souls ensnared in the struggle inherited from their parents. A nobleman in service to the crown finds his mortal enemy in a simple troubadour. They clash over the love of a young noblewoman, while a mysterious figure weaves the plot behind the scenes.
Dates: December 8-10, 6:00 p.m.
Address: Shymkent City Opera and Ballet Theater, Asqarov Street 43/2
Entrance: ₸3,000–₸4,000
Karagandy
Sary rock concert
Get ready for the Sary band to unleash their signature Q-rock vibe in the heart of Miners' City. Promising an unforgettable performance, the band will showcase not only their well-known bangers but also unveil yet unreleased songs.
Date: December 10, 7:00 p.m.
Address: Scream Bar, Kosmonavtov Street 67
Entrance: ₸3,000
