UN Day in Kazakhstan: premiere of “Qanattylar” inclusive theatre performance

The purpose of the theatre is to develop the talent of people with disabilities, promote their creative potential on stage, realize new opportunities and provide employment perspectives.

The event was organized by the UN Resident Coordinator Office in Kazakhstan with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan and K.Kuanyshbaev Kazakh Musical Drama Theatre. The event was attended by more than 500 people, including representatives of the central state bodies of Kazakhstan, diplomatic corps, non-governmental sector, communities dealing with people with disabilities issues, business, media, academia and all interested individuals.

This year’s UN Day is held under the aegis of the 30th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s membership in the UN, as well as the 25th anniversary of the UN General Assembly resolution on assistance to Semipalatinsk Region. “Leila’s Prayer” performance premiere based on the “Eternal Child” play by Roza Mukanova.  “Leila’s Prayer” is about the life of a girl with disabilities in the image of an eternal child, a victim of the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site. It is a great work that was able to convey the suffering of the Kazakh people through the bitter fate of Leila.

Addressing guests at the event, UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan Michaela Friberg-Storey noted: "The United Nations is being tested like never before. But the United Nations is needed like never before as well. Today, there are 27 UN agencies, funds and programs in Kazakhstan, and we have been proud of our partnership for those three decades. Together, we have implemented thousands of programs aimed at Kazakhstan's development. Through our current five-year Cooperation Framework with the Government of Kazakhstan, we are focusing on three areas: empowering people, strengthening institutions to deliver public services to the people of Kazakhstan, and protecting the environment and inclusive economic growth. Tonight´s performance by the «Qanattylar» inclusive theatre is one of such good examples".

The play is about the consequences of the nuclear test site, the mutual harmony of humankind and nature, and the importance of morality in every age of the human soul. The “Leyla’s Prayer” is distinguished by tradition, innovation, and unique vision.

"The UN remains indispensable as the only universal organization serving the interests and urgent needs of the humankind. Kazakhstan will continue to contribute to strengthening the role and authority of the UN and to all areas of its activities for implementing our collective desire for a better life. Sustainable development is inclusive, leaving no one behind", - said First Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Kairat Umarov.

During the event there was also a presentation of anniversary postage stamp and commemorative coin in honor of the 30th anniversary of Kazakhstan's membership in the UN. A stamp from the series "Anniversary and Commemorative Dates" and a special coin were put into circulation on 26 October 2022. The dombra was selected as a basic pattern of the stamp, as the Kazakh traditional art of Dombyra Kui is included in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. As for the coin design, the official emblem of the UN, located inside the outline of the map of Kazakhstan is depicted. Additional design elements are stars, symbolizing Kazakhstan's belonging to the world community among many other countries, equal member states of the UN.

Also as part of the UN Day a photo exhibition "Kazakhstan – UN: gender equality achievements" was presented, which demonstrated the efforts of women and their role in the development of the country in various fields.

Full video recording of the event available.