“Seýis” is the title of the new performance by the Nurmukhammet Andalib State Music and Drama Theater of Dashoguz velayat, dedicated to this year’s motto: “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses.”
Although the creative team has only just begun reading the dramatic work based on a piece by Merdan Charymukhammedov, all theater departments are already actively involved in preparations. Musical accompaniment and stage design are being developed, and the costume workshop is hard at work.
The new production promises to be a captivating and profound immersion into the ancient traditions of horse training. The audience will witness the continuity of generations and see how, day after day, masters care for young horses and train Ahal-Teke horses—a breed that has become a source of pride and a priceless treasure of the people.
The plot centers on a seyis visited by a wealthy khan who wishes to purchase a horse. The seyis refuses to sell the stallion, saying: “You may buy my life, but you cannot buy my soul. He is not a commodity—he is my brother!” In the end, the khan kidnaps the horse. Many years pass before the hero finally finds his faithful friend far from his native land.
Speaking to the horse, the seyis asks whether he remembers home, his native village, his family, and the races. At that time, he is unable to bring the horse back, and he returns home deeply saddened. Imagine his surprise when the horse later finds its own way back home—this becomes the touching climax of the performance.
“We are preparing the premiere for the National Day of the Turkmen Horse,” says the production’s director, Guvanch Baymedov. “The performance, which is close in spirit to a fairy tale, will feature many touching moments, a play of light and shadow, and rich musical accompaniment. It will also include numerous traditions, philosophical reflections, and proverbs. As one of them says: ‘Rise in the morning, visit your horse, and then your father.’ Following this wisdom, one understands just how important the horse is for a Turkmen—it is his soul.”
The production features Honored and People’s Artists of Turkmenistan, as well as talented young performers. The role of the seyis is played by young actor Begli Dovliyev. The artistic design is by Chingiz Torayev.
This year, dedicated to our “winged horses,” promises many more vibrant cultural events. Residents and guests of the country eagerly await new premieres and celebrations that will once again glorify the national heritage and spiritual traditions of the Turkmen people.
