Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) – On 2 and 3 October 2024, the State Academic Grand Theatre of Alisher Navoi will host the premiere of the opera "Tamerlano," directed by Stefano Poda. The music of George Frideric Handel will be presented in a contemporary interpretation by Kirill Richter.

The premiere is scheduled to coincide with the IV World Conference on Creative Economy, which will be held in Tashkent from 2 to 4 October 2024.

This opera is expected to be a grand cultural event, blending the grandeur of the past with modern influences. "Tamerlano" depicts the life of the great conqueror before he became a ruler and married Bibi-Khanym. The story centers on the love affair between Amir Timur and the daughter of his enemy, the Ottoman Sultan Bayezid. The dramatic narrative leads the protagonist to understand how to become a just warrior and monarch.

"Tamerlano," considered one of Handel’s finest works, was composed in just 20 days in July 1724. In 2024, this legendary opera will celebrate its 300th anniversary. The new production, initiated by the Fund for the Development of Culture and Arts of Uzbekistan, offers a modern reinterpretation of Handel’s work, focusing on the central plotline and dynamic presentation.

Composer and pianist Kirill Richter has undertaken the challenge of preparing a new interpretation of Handel’s music, incorporating Uzbek national instruments to bring the performance closer to the authentic sound of the era of Amir Timur. The National Symphony Orchestra of Uzbekistan, conducted by Alibek Kabdurakhmanov, will provide the musical accompaniment.

The project has attracted top international creative talents. Set design, costumes, lighting, and choreography are being created by the renowned Stefano Poda, whose projects have gained recognition on global stages. Poda’s unique style harmonizes ancient images with contemporary art, blending direction, choreography, scenery, costumes, and lighting. He creates a comprehensive experience that integrates design, architecture, sculpture, painting, music, and dramaturgy.

Paolo Gianni Chei, known for his strong and emotionally charged productions, is collaborating with Poda on the dramaturgy of "Tamerlano." Since 2008, Chei has worked with Poda as an assistant director, set designer, costume designer, and lighting artist.

A key feature of "Tamerlano" will be the participation of the Honored Choir of the Republic of Uzbekistan, led by Gulnara Malikova, the karnay-surnay group "Uzbegim," directed by Kamila Muminov, and the Orchestra of Folk Instruments, led by Abdulkharim Ashirmatov.

The production will involve over 160 people in total.

The opera will be performed in Italian. The leading role will be played by the country’s most renowned bass, People’s Artist of Uzbekistan Zhenisbek Piyazov. The role of the Turkish Sultan Bayezid will be performed by Spanish tenor Juan Sancho, considered one of the finest Handel interpreters of his generation, while the role of Bayezid’s daughter Asteria will be portrayed by soprano Veronika Kanhami from Argentina.

"Tamerlano" will feature new artistic and staging solutions for Uzbekistan. This creative project, combining deep respect for tradition with bold innovation, is expected to be a significant cultural event, attracting both local audiences and the international music community.