Yam G-Jun

Series Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan 14 frames

Fallen Swan

Fallen Swan, photograph 1 of 14
Fallen Swan, photograph 2 of 14

Once a symbol of pride for the former Soviet republic, the Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theatre has fallen into decay.

1935

The theatre is built with the support of the USSR. After the Soviet Union fell, central funding for the arts stopped.

Fallen Swan, photograph 3 of 14
Fallen Swan, photograph 4 of 14
Fallen Swan, photograph 5 of 14
Fallen Swan, photograph 6 of 14
Fallen Swan, photograph 7 of 14

The Kyrgyz government took control of the theatre but made little effort to maintain it or revive the arts.

Today the dancers are badly paid, with no medical benefits or work expenses covered, and many lack the motivation to continue.

Fallen Swan, photograph 8 of 14
Fallen Swan, photograph 9 of 14
Fallen Swan, photograph 10 of 14
Fallen Swan, photograph 11 of 14

Many have taken their talents abroad and found success there, a testament to the ballet schooling in Bishkek. Half of the current roster have careers abroad; most came back because of Covid-19, holding on to the idea of bringing back the theatre’s glory days.

Fallen Swan, photograph 12 of 14
Fallen Swan, photograph 13 of 14
Fallen Swan, photograph 14 of 14