The first chapter was dedicated to national classics: a scene from the opera "Kyz Zhibek" by E. Brusilovsky, one of the first domestic composers who combined European operatic tradition with the melodies of the Kazakh steppe. Bazarbay, performed by Bolat Esimhanov, sounded formidable and convincing, while the aria of Zhibek ("Tolkyma") interpreted by Asem Sembina conveyed the inner strength of the main character. The performance also featured Talgat Galeev, Beimbet Tanarykov, Narul Toykenov, and Gulzhanat Sapakova. The choir's rendition of "Gakku" served as a vibrant finale to the scene, emphasizing the serenity of the steppe nature and the harmony hidden in its simplicity.
A scene from the opera "Abai" by A. Zhubanova and L. Khamidi continued the national theme. The highlight was the performance of Abai's aria by Zhanat Shybykbaev. His deep and rich voice conveyed the tragic wisdom of the character. Alongside him, Ramzat Balakishiev, Nazym Sagintay, Ulpan Aubakirova, and Yerzhan Saipov showcased their talents.
While Kazakhstan's classics seemed to immerse the audience in familiar motifs, the world repertoire filled the evening with vivid contrasts. In a light yet dramatic scene from the opera "The Barber of Seville" by G. Rossini, the audience laughed and admired the unique voices and performances of the artists. Figaro, performed by Altynbek Abildy, was sparkling and charismatic, while Rosina, played by the renowned Saltanat Akhmetova, infused a special energy into the performance. Many were surprised when the artist appeared on the balcony, and the aria of Almaviva, sung by Artur Gabdiev and the male choir, captivated with its passion.
The mood shifted dramatically with the aria of the Mermaid from the namesake opera by A. Dvorak, performed by guest Libushe Santorisova from the Czech Republic. The program also featured Lensky's aria and the duel scene from "Eugene Onegin" by P. Tchaikovsky. Artur Gabdiev, in the role of Lensky, managed to convey his character's despair and bravery, while Talgat Musabaev, portraying Onegin, brilliantly showcased the complexity of his internal conflict. The scene also included performances by Zhanat Shybykbaev and Aigul Niyazova.
The hall warmly welcomed the exit aria of Cio-Cio-San from "Madama Butterfly" by G. Puccini, the Spanish dance from the opera "Life is Short" by M. de Falla, and the aria of Luisa from the zarzuela "The Daughters of Zebedee" by R. Chapí. The scene from "Tosca" by G. Puccini left an equally strong impression. The duet of the opera prima Zhuphar Gabdullina (Tosca) and Evgeny Chaynikov (Scarpia) kept the audience on edge, as did the duet of Aida and Amneris from the opera "Aida" by G. Verdi, performed by Bibigul Zhanuzak and Saltanat Muratbekova.
The concert also featured their colleagues – Bagdat Abilhanov, Shyngys Rasylkhan, Dinmukhamed Koshkinbaev, Sultan Bakytzhan, Tatyana Vitsinskaya, Zhannat Bakhtay, Madina Islamova, the adult and children's choir artists, mimans, and the "Astana Opera" Symphony Orchestra.
In the evening's finale, the audience was presented with a scene from the comic opera by S. Mukhamedzhanov "Aysulu," leaving viewers in a very uplifted mood as they exited the hall. "It was a wonderful evening," noted concertgoer Askar Ibraev after the performance. Others compared the concert to a journey through the pages of operatic classics, where each number was distinct from the others.