Аңдатпа
The article examines the pearl of Kazakh classical oral literature – the lyric-epic poem «Kyz Zhibek», first staged on the Kazakh stage in 1934. It highlights the history of its stage interpretations to the present day, including a deep fundamental analysis of the individual characteristics of actors and directors. The development and history of the lyric-epic work are investigated. As research methods, a list of “Kyz Zhibek” theatrical productions was compiled, as well as a chronological comparative analysis of the performances for each year. The article examines the history of writing and the style of works by specialists who adapted it into drama, opera, and libretto, particularly the dramatic productions by Evgeny Brusilovsky and Gabit Musirepov, as well as ballet and opera versions, which are subjected to in-depth scientific comparative analysis. In the period from 2017 to 2023, special attention was paid to modern stage productions presented in independent theaters of Kazakhstan, their role and artistic significance in the renewal of national culture. The authors focus on the innovative representation of the image of “Kyz Zhibek” and describe the process of its reinterpretation in modern cultural and artistic discourse. The set design of the play, the dramatic structure, and choreographic solutions give this epic work a new artistic content. Special attention is paid to the interpretation of the Kyz Zhibek aria performed by Bibigul Tolegenova, as well as the synthesis of stage movement and plasticity. The performance, based on the lyrical epic poem “Kyz Zhibek” by Zhusipbek Shaikhislamuly, was subjected to an in-depth analysis. The research was based on the works of Russian theater and art critics such as Gulnara Dzhumaseitova, Dauren Abirov, and Bulat Ayukhanov. The work “Kyz Zhibek” retains its relevance and artistic power in the history of Kazakh classical art for decades and has become an important example of the interpretation of epic heritage from a director's and stage point of view. The results of the study demonstrate narrative and artistic innovations in modern Kazakh stage art. The study invites an international art historian reader to evaluate the creative view of the directors, production designers and actors who staged the play “Kyz Zhibek”, and presents new content and images in the interpretation of the Kazakh lyrical epic. The scientific study of various approaches to the scenic interpretation of the national heritage opens the way to a deeper understanding of the development of the Kazakh theater.