From November 7 to 9, 2024, the Kazakh National Academy of Choreography hosted the III International Festival of Professional Choreographic Educational Institutions "Temps lié," which brought together leading professional choreographic schools, world ballet stars, and choreographers. This important cultural event served as a platform for exchanging experiences and strengthening connections between dance schools from around the world.
The grand opening of the festival was marked by a press conference featuring esteemed guests. Among the participants were Asylmuratova Altynai Abduakhimovna, artistic director of the Kazakh National Academy of Choreography and the ballet company of the "Astana Opera" Theatre, Nussipzhanova Bibigul Nurgalievna, rector of the Academy; renowned ballet artist and director of the Ballet Department at the Beijing Dance Academy Vladimir Malakhov; Mariinsky Theatre prima ballerina Diana Vishneva; Vasily Medvedev, choreographer of the ballet The Romance of the Rosebud and the Butterfly; Konstantin Matveev, artistic director of the Boris Eifman Dance Academy; and vice president of the Beijing Dance Academy Su Ya.
During the press conference, each guest emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and collaboration between educational institutions, which promotes the development of choreography in a global context.
Choreographers of upcoming performances shared exciting behind-the-scenes details, creative ideas, staging approaches, and unique aspects of each production.
Audiences witnessed a special performance by the Kazakh National Academy of Choreography — the ballet The Romance of the Rosebud and the Butterfly, staged by choreographer Vasily Medvedev and based on Marius Petipa's last work. The performance, set to the music of Riccardo Drigo, celebrated the 120th anniversary of the original production, adding particular significance to the event.
On November 8, the Academy hosted master classes led by world ballet stars Diana Vishneva, prima ballerina of the Mariinsky Theatre, and the esteemed dancer and choreographer Vladimir Malakhov. These master classes allowed festival participants and guests to experience the highest level of artistry, immerse themselves in the world of classical choreography, and gain insights from master artists. A round table discussion on "Prospects for the Development of Choreographic Schools in the Modern Education System" also took place that day, where domestic and international specialists discussed the future of dance art.
The festival culminated with a Gala Evening on November 9 at the Astana Ballet stage. Students from the Boris Eifman Dance Academy and the Beijing Dance Academy presented their programs to the audience. The Boris Eifman Dance Academy performed the one-act ballet Epiphania, devoted to themes of faith, hope, and love. The Beijing Dance Academy showcased the program Divertissement, which combined classical works with contemporary pieces, highlighting the diversity and beauty of choreographic art.
The "Temps lié" Festival became a significant international platform where participants could exchange experiences, establish professional connections, and find inspiration for new creative projects