News / Новости

Uzbekistan: Ancient walls instead of theatrical decorations

30/09/2016 10:46

In the state historical culture preserve “Ichan-qala” (Inner city), situated in Khiva – one of the most ancient cities in the northwest territory of Uzbekistan collected more than 100 unique architectural monuments of the country in one place. Even, in 1999, “Ichan-qala” was included to the list of the world cultural heritage of UNESCO, and often it is called as “a museum under the open sky” or “a dream city”.

In side streets, squares, palaces and under the canopy of majestic minarets often different theatrical shows, folk festivals and exhibitions of the masters of national handicrafts are held, which makes deep impression on the audience and even many tourists of the other regions of Uzbekistan and from other countries become participants.

According to the acknowledgements of the tourists, they were very lucky to be spectators of colored performances of the local national puppet show which was lately held several days in “Tosh hovli” (Stone palace) one of the grandest palaces of the “Ichan-qala”.

Namesof the playsperformed here speak for themselves: “Moziydansado” (Echo of the past), “Tahir and Zuhra” (based on the well-known poem of Uzbek classic literature by AlisherNavai), “Khorazmlazgisi” (about the history and development of inflammatory khorezmian dance –lazgi), “New adventures of Afandi” (new adventures of popular hero of Uzbek folk).

My wife Marie and I just admiredseeing these shows on the background of the ancient walls, decorated with unique tiled patterns– a tourist from France Patrick Berbulanshareshis impressions. Such performances perfectly convey the meaning of the traditions and rites of your nation, so they help to understand its character, its unique culture and rich history. Even interpreters weren’t requiredin many episodes.We will tell our friends and family in our hometown about what we have seen here.

I am an architect, – says Hacker Ehrler, inhabitant of English capital London, - therefore, I can appreciate the skills of ancient architects who were able to build such unique monuments. For example, the palace “Tosh hovli” not only surprises for its greatness, wall and ceiling patterns, elegant carvings on the pillars that support them, but also for its well-designed layout of terraces, halls and courtyards, where traditions of national and oriental architecture and climatic peculiarities were considered. In addition, the performed shows told us about the other sides of your rich culture.

Organizing such performances is our contribution in fulfilling the Decree of the head of our state, about the development of tourism in Khorezm region within the next years, - says DavronbekAtabaev,the director of the regional puppet theatre, Honoured Worker of Culture of Uzbekistan.We are pleased that, judging by the reaction of the audience, the creative concept was a success and will further attract tourists to our ancient city, will contribute to the expansion of its fame worldwide.