Comet Calendar
Screening of “The Path”: a film by Aibek Baiymbetov
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 6:30pm to 7:30pm
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 6:30pm to 7:30pm
The Living Performance of Manas epic: Oral Tradition and Cultural Continuity in Contemporary Kyrgyzstan
This ethnographic documentary examines the living oral tradition of the Kyrgyz Manas epic through the lens of Kulmat, a manaschy (epic storyteller) whose vocation was divinely ordained in a visionary dream. The film investigates the intersection of individual spiritual experience and collective cultural heritage, exploring Kulmat’s belief that the epic embodies the voices of ancestors. By documenting the challenges of preserving this intricate art form, the work highlights the dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity, shedding light on the evolving role of the manaschy in mentoring a new generation and ensuring cultural continuity in contemporary Kyrgyzstan.
Following the screening, there will be a Q&A with the filmmaker.
Aibek Baiymbetov is PhD student in Ethnomusicology, Wesleyan University and a Research Fellow at University of Central Asia.
40 minutes; in the Kyrgyz language with English subtitles.
In partnership with International Initiatives at UT Dallas
Crow Museum of Asian Art at UT Dallas
Edith and Peter O'Donnell Jr. Athenaeum
777 Loop Rd. SW
Richardson, TX 75080
Edith and Peter O’Donnell Jr. Athenaeum, Phase I (APC1)
777 Loop Road SW, Building 1, Richardson, TX 75080
Arts & Performances, Campus & Community, Lectures & Workshops
Undergraduate Students, Faculty & Staff, Alumni, General Public, Prospective Students, Graduate Students, International Students
Academic Calendar, Arts & Culture, Research, Career and Professional Development, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Welcoming & Belonging, Campus Life
UTD strives to create inclusive and accessible events in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you require an accommodation to fully participate in this event, please contact the event coordinator (listed above) at least 10 business days prior to the event. If you have any additional questions, please email ADACoordinator@utdallas.edu and the AccessAbility Resource Center at accessability@utdallas.edu.
