A Kazakh-language production of the classic musical «Notre-Dame de Paris» has gone viral on social media in Kazakhstan.
Archived clip resurfaces
A Threads user shared an archived video of the performance, featuring actors Zharkynai Shalkar and Yerbol Narimanuly in the roles of Esmeralda and Frollo.
The 2018 staging in Astana is based on the 1998 musical of the same name, first performed in Paris — the setting of Victor Hugo’s novel «The Hunchback of Notre Dame.» The Kazakh version retained the structure of the original musical but adapted the lyrics and overall presentation.
The production was directed by the musical’s creators, Riccardo Cocciante and Luc Plamondon, together with a French production team.
Social media reaction
Viewers say the actors’ voices blend seamlessly with the musical score and describe the Esmeralda-Frollo duet as particularly expressive. Many users note that hearing the story in their native language allowed them to experience the musical in a new way, even though they already knew the plot well.
Uncertain future for the musical
Since its 2018 premiere, there has been little information about repeat performances of the Kazakh-language version. Although the production was announced for shows in several Central Asian countries, it has not appeared on Kazakh playbills in recent years.
With renewed online attention, some viewers hope organizers will consider bringing the musical back to the stage.
