Today, the Alp Arslan National Drama Theater played host to a stage play ‘Watanym-Seždegähim’ (Devotion to the Motherland’) shown in a video format as part of the competition for the best theatrical production launched by the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan. The production was staged by the Nurmuhammed Andalib Dashoguz Music and Drama Theater.
Playwright Oremurat Ovezov, who wrote the script for the stage adaptation, delivered a welcome address to the audience and told about the production’s concept.
‘Watanym-Seždegähim’ is based on President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s book ‘The Spiritual World of the Turkmen’ that explores very important themes, such as spiritual values and a happy and prosperous life. The book also highlights the instrumental role of science and education in social development, and the importance of promoting a healthy lifestyle and nurturing patriotism, hard work, determination and dedication in youth.
The opening scene shows a young man, who is going to do his military service, has a conversation with his grandfather. Nazar-aga turns to the book to tell his grandson about the glorious national traditions.
Then, the production transports the audience back in time to the distant past and tells the story of a young man named Arslan, a brave warrior, who defends his native land against enemies on the battlefield. The stage work features distinctive folk melodies that dramatically accompany scenes of peaceful life and battle scenes alike. The play directed by Bekmurad Khallyev was warmly received by the audience.
Leading actors play in the production: Honored Artist of Turkmenistan Meretdurdy Seyidov as Nazar-aga and Honored Artist of Turkmenistan Khalmurat Shirliev as a traveler. Actress Maral Arestanova deserves a mention for her impressive and engaging performance.
When asked by the Golden Age correspondent about his future plans, Ovezmurat Ovezov told about a play ‘Ömür Çyragym Watan’ (‘My Motherland – the Light of My Life’), which is now in the works. The theater company is staging it to mark the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s neutrality. The plot revolves around relationships between several generations of the same family against the backdrop of landmark events in our country’s contemporary history.
Roman TEPLYAKOV
Photo: Yuri SHKURIN
