OPEN CALL: Casting for the musical "Bygone Days" — the main project of the Uzbek theater in 2026

The musical is based on the legendary novel "Bygone Days" (1926) by Abdulla Qodiriy—the first modern Uzbek novel and a masterpiece of national literature. The work, which was banned during the Soviet era, tells the story of the tragic love between Atabek and Kumush against the backdrop of the historical events of 19th-century Turkestan, the struggle between tradition and modernization, personal freedom and social obligations.

Creative team (international):

- Stefano Poda (Italy) — world-class theater director
; 

- Georges Tomb (France) — award-winning composer, pianist

His music has been performed on prestigious stages in the USA, Europe, and the Middle East

Award winner: “Best Music Feature Film” (Cannes 2022), “Outstanding Excellence” (DWB International Film Festival)

Composer of the music for the ballet "Pinocchio" (in collaboration with Balletto Del Sud);

Alibek Kabdurakhmanov — Director of the State Academic Bolshoi Theatre of Opera and Ballet named after Alisher Navoi;

Zhenisbek Piyazov — the principal bass of Uzbekistan, People's Artist of the country;

Special guest star — to be announced;

Casting Committee (Jury): Professionals of international and national level will evaluate the vocal abilities, stage presence, and suitability for the role of the participants.

Dates and location:

When: February 6-8, 2026

Where: Alisher Navoi State Academic Bolshoi Theatre, Tashkent

Who can participate:

Vocalists of all skill levels;

Professionals and amateurs;

No age restrictions.

What participation will provide:

• Valuable professional experience on the international stage
• Work with recognized masters of opera and musical theater
• The opportunity to become part of a world-class musical
• Project presentation in Uzbekistan and abroad

Contacts and registration:

+998 99 838 65 15

cultural_events@acdf.uz

Project Context:

This is the first major musical in Uzbekistan, created using modern theatrical technology and international-level performance. The project is part of the state policy aimed at developing the country's cultural potential and presenting Uzbek culture on the world stage.

Abdulla Qadiri (1894–1938), the author of the novel, was repressed and executed in 1938, but his legacy survived the Soviet period and remains one of the most influential works of Uzbek literature. Adapting the novel into a musical theater format will allow a new generation to discover the classics of national culture.