Toktogul Satylganov National Philharmonic
Токтогул Сатылганов атындагы филармония
A Soviet-style national philharmonic hall with a statue group of the epic hero Manas and his companions in the square out front, where you can enjoy komuz performances and recitations of the Manas epic.
The National Philharmonic is named after Toktogul Satylganov, the renowned Kyrgyz folk poet and komuz player, and was built in 1980. Its exterior is a classic example of late-Soviet modernist architecture. In the square in front stands a large sculpture group: at the center, Manas on horseback with a spear; on either side, his wife Kanykei and his adviser Bakai; and around them, statues of manaschi, the epic performers. Together they commemorate the Manas epic, which runs to some 500,000 lines and is inscribed on UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The hall presents symphony concerts, folk orchestra and komuz performances year-round, as well as dedicated Manas epic recitals. Tickets are inexpensive, making it a great way to experience Kyrgyz musical culture. Check the official website or box office for performance information. Getting there: on the western stretch of Chui Avenue, about 1.5 km from Ala-Too Square, a 5-minute taxi ride. Note: Dress neatly for performances. Photography and video recording are prohibited during shows.
Opening hours
Square open all day; performance times per ticket information
Nearby sights
- Holy Resurrection Cathedral
- Panfilov Park
- White House
- State Historical Museum
- Ala-Too Square
- Osh Bazaar
- Frunze House Museum
- Oak Park