The Hero of Labor of Kazakhstan, National Artist, actor and director of theater and cinema, theater educator, and professor Asanali Ashimov visited our university. The honored guest was welcomed by Rector Zhanar Temirbekova, vice-rectors, the university staff, and students.
The distinguished artist met with students of the Faculty of Arts, Media, and Design. The meeting was also attended by the Head of the Department of Culture of Turkistan Region Azimkhan Koilybayev, representatives of the cultural sphere, Director of the Turkistan Music and Drama Theater Alimkhan Myrzakhan, and other prominent figures.
Moderator of the meeting, Zhanar Temirbekova, said:
“A theater festival titled ‘Қазақтың Құманбегі’ (‘Kazakhtyn Kumanbeki’) has started in our city in honor of the 120th anniversary of Kurmanbek Zhandarbekov’s birth. Supporting this festival in every possible way, Asanali Ashimov has gathered 13 theater troupes here in Turkistan. I would like to note that the stage we are standing on bears the name of another outstanding master of theatrical art — Raiymbek Seitmetov. Being a great educator, R. Seitmetov founded the Faculty of Arts at our university and trained many talented actors and directors. Today, on this very stage, his students are passing on their knowledge to a new generation.
Assanali Ashimov was a close friend and colleague of Raiymbek Seitmetov. I am sure that this stage and the performances of his friend’s students will touch his heart. On behalf of the university, I express my sincere gratitude to Asanali Ashimov for visiting our institution. I believe that our students will draw inspiration, wisdom, and blessings from this meeting with the great master!”
Zhanar Temirbekova also spoke about the opening of the Assembly Hall named after Raiymbek Seitmetov, the work of the student theater, and its original productions — the musical dramas “The Path of Yassawi” and “A Thousand Epochs — One Turkistan,” which were presented on major stages. She also mentioned graduates of the Acting Art program who are now successfully working in various regions of the country.
Then, our students expressed their respect to the guests by showcasing their creativity: some recited a dedication to Asanali Ashimov, while others performed songs.
In his speech, Asanali Ashimov said:
“Dear colleagues, future artists, and students! This place is a cradle of art, the land where Kazakh culture blossoms. To study and grow in the sacred city of Turkistan is an honor not given to everyone. You should be proud to receive your education here.
Acting is a noble profession! Once, I entered this field without love, but now I leave it having given it all my heart. For those who truly understand, this profession is priceless and boundless.
I witnessed my friend Raiymbek founding the Faculty of Arts here, in this university. I remember their first performances and how they toured in Turkey for months. Raiymbek was my close friend — we studied together, worked together, and even lived under the same roof. I express my deep gratitude to the university for honoring and valuing the memory of my dear friend.”
The renowned actor shared his advice and professional secrets with the future stars of the stage. He urged students to read literature, especially the novel “The Path of Abai,” to gain a deeper understanding of culture and humanity. The actor emphasized the importance of broadening one’s horizons, noting that anyone can play a role, but only a true master can create a living character. He called on aspiring artists to realize the significance of every role and to thoughtfully convey its meaning to the audience.
At the end of the meeting, the students received insightful answers to their questions about theater and acting. Assanali Ashimov blessed the younger generation, wishing them inspiration and creative success.
Rector Zhanar Temirbekova presented honorary robes (chapans) and commemorative gifts to Asanali Ashimov and other guests. In front of the Faculty of Arts building, Asanali Ashimov planted a tree, wishing prosperity and well-being to the university. All participants took a memorable photo with Assanali Ashimov — the outstanding artist whose name is inscribed in golden letters in the history of Kazakh art.
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