Cirque du Soleil’s OVO Brings Insect-Inspired Spectacle to Kazakhstan

The acclaimed Cirque du Soleil production "OVO" is currently enchanting audiences in Astana, Kazakhstan, with performances scheduled from June 4-7 at the Barys Arena. The show transports viewers into a vibrant, insect-inspired world, transforming the everyday lives of tiny creatures into a spectacular theatrical experience through a captivating blend of acrobatics, music, and visual storytelling.

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We previously visited Kazakhstan in 2017, and now, in 2026, we are bringing OVO – a production that Kazakh audiences have never seen before. We are delighted to be here with our entire team.

Prior to the official premiere, media representatives were granted a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the meticulous preparations for "OVO." This exclusive access offered a firsthand look at the atmosphere and dedication involved in one of the world's most renowned live performances. Janie Mallet, Senior Touring Publicist for "OVO," highlighted Cirque du Soleil's founding mission in 1984 to inspire imagination and evoke emotions globally.

"We previously visited Kazakhstan in 2017, and now, in 2026, we are bringing OVO – a production that Kazakh audiences have never seen before. We are delighted to be here with our entire team," Mallet stated. The "OVO" production features 53 performers embodying various insect characters, including butterflies, ants, and spiders. These artists hail from 25 different countries and collectively speak 17 languages, underscoring the show's international scope.

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OVO brings together 53 performers from 25 countries who speak 17 languages.

Performers Arthur Dudov and Esmira Kuliyeva, who specialize in aerial acrobatics, emphasized the production's global nature and the physical demands of their acts. Dudov described Cirque du Soleil as the "best circus company" he has worked for, noting that the show's nonverbal storytelling ensures its accessibility to audiences worldwide. Kuliyeva added that their butterfly act conveys a message of strength and bravery, even in delicate creatures, requiring high levels of physical conditioning and precision.

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She noted that the performance requires a high level of strength and precision, with complex aerial elements and balance-intensive sequences that rely entirely on physical conditioning.