“The Black Cloak” in London: The Arts Stage Theatre’s First Step into the British Theatre Landscape

“The Black Cloak” in London: The Arts Stage Theatre’s First Step into the British Theatre Landscape

Last week, on 13 November 2025, London’s Shaw Bernardo Theatre hosted the premiere of “Қара Шекпен” (The Black Cloak) – the first production of The Arts Stage Theatre, a newly established company founded by producer and actress, Shynargul Kabysheva, laureate of Kazakhstan’s Serper Youth Award. As a theatre director was invited Kazakh actress and television presenter Akkenzhe Alimzhan, laureate of multiple international theatre festivals. The production brought together distinguished theatre and film actors from Kazakhstan, giving the evening exceptional artistic weight. Among the attendees were prominent British media executive Umesh Perera and renowned Kazakh media figure Laila Sultanqyzy, who both emphasized the cultural importance of this event for the two countries.

The production was directed by Askhat Mayemirov, Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan, PhD and professor at Kazakh National University of Arts. His staging introduced London audiences to the philosophical and universal dramatic language of the play. Based on a parable by playwright Georgy Khugaev, The Black Cloak explores human vulnerability, moral conflict, and the delicate balance between loyalty and betrayal through the symbolic world of animals. At its emotional core lies the relationship between the Shepherd and his devoted dog, Tuzar – a storyline that deeply resonated with viewers.

A strong ensemble cast from Kazakhstan provided the production with its expressive power. Maqsat Sabitov, one of Kazakhstan’s leading theatre and film actors, portrayed Tuzar with remarkable depth; his refined Kazakh stage speech and rich vocal timbre shaped a compelling portrait of absolute devotion. The Shepherd was played by Asset Eszhan, recipient of the national Kazakhstan’s Daryn State Youth Award, whose commanding presence and expressive delivery brought striking authenticity to the role. People’s Artist of Kazakhstan Lidiya Kaden conveyed emotional intensity and tragic nuance in the character of Kosurey. Shynargul Kabysheva gave the fox Sylang a charismatic and captivating interpretation, while Akkenzhe Alimzhan brought strength and sensitivity to the role of the young she-wolf Kökshulan. The ensemble was further strengthened by powerful performances from Edil Ramazanov (Kökzhal), Erlan Karibayev (Kukar), Darkhan Suleimenov (Kiko), Ainur Rakhipova (Bebe), Gulsharat Zhubayeva (Tagdyr) and Didar Tolegenov (Kortyk). Together, they demonstrated the depth, discipline, and expressive richness of Kazakhstan’s theatrical tradition.

After the performance, audiences were treated to a short concert programme featuring acclaimed vocalist Bakyt Turman, traditional dance compositions by Gulsharat Zhubayeva, and an expressive dramatic monologue by People’s Artist of Kazakhstan Lidiya Kaden. The evening concluded with the iconic Kazakh song “Atameken” by Eskendir Khasangaliyev, creating a moment of heartfelt unity among Kazakh spectators and serving as a moving finale.

The London premiere confirmed that Kazakh theatre is ready for meaningful international dialogue and resonates naturally on the global stage. Viewers expressed a strong interest in seeing more works by Kazakh directors and playwrights in the United Kingdom, as well as future cross-cultural collaborations with British theatres. With this debut, The Arts Stage Theatre has confidently established its presence, marking an important step toward further cultural exchange between the two countries.

Author: Assem Abenova, PhD Student in Theatre Art Studies