Polina Kamysheva, born in Bishkek in 2004, moved with her family to Russia at the age of five. Initially, they planned to stay there forever, but a few years ago, due to the unstable situation, they returned to their homeland.
Currently, Polina is a ballerina at the Abdylas Maldybaev Kyrgyz National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet. She has trained in various countries, and ahead of her are tours and plans related to Kyrgyzstan.
— How did you end up in the world of ballet?
— In my childhood, I practiced rhythmic gymnastics, and at 12, I entered the Choreographic School. Inspired by watching ballet, I felt a sea of emotions. I loved the performers, the music, and the atmosphere — it was all incredibly beautiful.
I first studied in Krasnodar, then continued my education at the Perm State Choreographic School. I was invited to the Royal Ballet in Belgium, but the trip did not happen. I studied for a year and a half at the Ballet Academy in Astana. In 2024, I returned to Bishkek and got a job at the Opera and Ballet Theater. My father is a football player; he played for clubs in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia. In Krasnodar, he was involved in trade, and after returning, he opened a football academy.
In our theater, there is a friendly atmosphere, and the management is always responsive. This is a historic place, and I truly enjoy working here. We treat costumes and wigs with special respect, seeing them not just as inventory but as museum relics. Our colleagues performed in them 30-40 years ago, and the dressing rooms have not changed since then.
— How popular is ballet in Kyrgyzstan?
— Our performances often fill the hall. For example, on New Year, there was a full house for the ballet "The Nutcracker." Soon we will perform "Cholpon," and I think it will also attract a large audience.
I participate in 15-20 performances. Recently, our ballet troupe went on tour to Spain for the first time since I joined the theater, where for two weeks we showcased "The Nutcracker" and "Swan Lake." In our free time, we explored the sights. We have many talented artists in our troupe, and we have much to show the audience. I wish there were more tours.
— What feelings did you experience when you returned to Bishkek after a long absence?
— I was struck by the fact that nothing had changed during my absence. The city still resembled a large village — the architecture and roads were in a neglected state. However, in recent years, there have been positive changes: modern neighborhoods are being built. For example, in the southern part of the capital, where I live, wide roads and beautiful houses have appeared. However, the air quality has significantly worsened.
— Are there similarities between Bishkek and Krasnodar?
— Yes, the climate is similar. Prices in Kyrgyzstan are still lower than in Russia, but they are gradually equalizing, especially for food.
— What is your attitude towards the locals? Is it easy to find common ground?
— I lived in Russia and Kazakhstan for a long time, so I can compare. I have not met open and warm people like those in Kyrgyzstan anywhere else. However, many seem to have a lot on their minds, and when I travel home from work, I see how tired they are.
— They say people here are not very punctual...
— In my circle, it’s quite the opposite. We, artists, are instilled with discipline and respect for others from childhood. Punctuality is one of its manifestations.
— What local dishes do you like?
— Plov and manti. My mother is of Uzbek descent, and she often cooks these dishes.
— Do you have a favorite place in Kyrgyzstan?
— My home, the theater, and of course, Issyk-Kul. I often go there, resting not only on the beach but also in the mountains — I have visited the Grigorievsky Gorge. I also like the picturesque Ala-Archa Gorge, which is located not far from Bishkek. I love nature; it helps me recharge after work. Constant rehearsals and performances are interesting, but morally quite challenging.
— Do you feel nervous before performances?
— With experience, the nervousness goes away. My faith in God helps me. The main thing is to get in the right mindset and push aside unnecessary thoughts.
— Do you dream of conquering the world stages?
— Who wouldn’t want that? But right now, I perform here, and all my thoughts are connected to Kyrgyzstan. I have a lot to do. I have participated in photo shoots and have been invited to a modeling agency. There were also offers in film, but nothing concrete came out of it.
When I retire, I dream of opening a ballet academy and nurturing young artists. I believe in Kyrgyzstan and am convinced that the country is destined for prosperity.
