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ASTANA – From the surreal world of Belgian painter James Ensor to a ballet exploring the search for meaning, Kazakhstan’s mid-October calendar brings together art, live performances and sporting events. Here’s what’s happening this weekend in Astana and Almaty.
Photo credit: Shutterstock
Astana
“Between Mask and Reality” art exhibition, Oct.16 – Jan.13
Discover the work of Belgian artist James Ensor, known for his imaginative use of masks, skeletons and carnival scenes. His paintings explore human nature, social roles and the difference between appearances and reality, offering visitors a closer look at one of the pioneers of modern European art.

James Ensor, Masks Confronting Death, 1888, Museum of Modern Art.
Venue: National Museum of Kazakhstan; 54 Tauelsizdik Avenue. Tickets are available here.
“Altyn Gul” (Gold Flower) ballet, Oct. 16-17
Follow the journey of a wandering dervish and jeweller searching for the meaning of life. Through expressive choreography and striking stage imagery, the performance explores hope, self-discovery and the strength to keep moving forward through difficult times.

Photo credit: Astana Ballet
Venue: Astana Ballet; 43 Uly Dala Avenue. Tickets are available here.
Classical concert, Oct. 18
Introduce young music lovers to the world of classical music through an engaging concert combining live performances, storytelling and playful activities. Children can learn about musical instruments, discover their distinctive sounds and enjoy an entertaining introduction to the orchestra.

Photo credit: Shutterstock
Venue: Astana Opera; 1 Konayev Street. Tickets are available here.
“Romeo and Juliet” ballet, Oct. 18
Experience Shakespeare’s famous love story through the expressive movements of flamenco. The Spanish company combines dance, music and dramatic storytelling to present a fresh interpretation of the tragedy, bringing the characters’ passion and conflict to the stage.

Photo credit: flamencoagency.com
Venue: Zhastar Palace; 34 Republic Avenue. Tickets are available here.
Almaty
Almaty Open, Oct. 17-25
Tennis fans can watch international players compete in a major tournament, with exciting matches and high-level competition throughout the event.

Photo credit: olympic.kz
Venue: Almaty Arena; 7 Nurkent Microdistrict. Tickets are available here.
“Cinderella” performance, Oct. 17
Enjoy a familiar fairy tale filled with music, dancing and a little magic. Young audiences can follow the story of a kind-hearted girl who dreams of attending a royal ball, meeting the characters and discovering how dreams can come true.

Photo credit: Astana Ballet
Venue: 124 Dostyk Avenue. Tickets are available here.
Football match, Oct. 18
Football supporters can head to the stadium to watch FC Kairat take on FC Irtysh in the Kazakhstan Premier League. Expect an evening of competitive football as the teams meet for an important fixture in the domestic season.

Photo credit: FC Kairat
Venue: Central Stadium; 48 Abay Avenue. Tickets are available here.
The post What’s On This Weekend: Art, Ballet and Tennis appeared first on The Astana Times.
