Alanga Fest 2026
Six days of cultural discussions, creative growth, and new discoveries in Tashkent
For six vibrant days this spring, Tashkent became a meeting point for creativity, ambition, and international exchange. From 21 to 26 April, the II International Youth Festival ALANGA 2026 gathered young talents, international experts, performers, models, choreographers, and creative teams from different countries on one dynamic stage.
More than a competition, ALANGA has steadily shaped itself into a cultural and educational platform where artistic expression meets professional development. Across six carefully curated days, participants moved through a journey of learning and discovery - from first introductions and intercultural exchange to world-class masterclasses, competitive showcases, and a spectacular Grand Final.
Day One: Welcome to Uzbekistan!
The festival opened with the arrival of international delegations, participant registration, and the first moments of anticipation that define any large creative gathering.
The evening unfolded at Ichan Qal’a Premium Class Hotel with a Friendship Night inspired by the atmosphere of a traditional Uzbek bazaar. Guests were welcomed into a setting filled with local flavors, national dress, and shared cultural experiences.
The event quickly became more than a formal opening. It was a space for dialogue, where participants from different countries connected through hospitality, storytelling, and art. A particularly memorable moment was the arrival of international experts, including Hollywood actor Kirk Baltz and German jazz musician Karl Frierson, whose presence immediately set an inspiring tone for the days ahead.
Day Two: First interviews and the art of acting
The second day shifted toward professional evaluation and performance development.
Participants in the MODEL category presented themselves during interviews with the jury, sharing portfolios, personal stories, and professional aspirations. For many, this marked the first major step in presenting their talent before an international panel.
At the same time, Hollywood actor, producer, and director Kirk Baltz led acting workshops focused on emotional expression, screen presence, and the practical realities of working within the international film industry. Participants explored techniques used in professional cinema while developing confidence and emotional awareness on stage. The sessions concluded with certificates recognizing their participation and commitment to growth.
Day Three: The language of movement
The festival’s third day celebrated choreography and the discipline behind performance.
A collective rehearsal and choreography masterclass were led by Iamillia Bikbaeva, Honored Artist of the Republic of Bashkortostan and member of ALANGA’s international jury.
The workshops encouraged both solo participants and creative groups to deepen their understanding of movement as a form of storytelling. Through technique, coordination, and stage discipline, performers explored how choreography carries both cultural identity and emotional meaning.
The day demonstrated that dance is not only performance - it is communication, memory, and collective expression.
Day Four: The spotlight on talent
By 24 April, the festival entered one of its most energetic and anticipated phases.
High Town Mall transformed into a stage for the TALENT category, where individual performers and artistic groups presented their work before audiences and judges.
The diversity of performances made this one of the defining moments of ALANGA 2026. Vocal performances, dance, instrumental music, and original stage concepts filled the venue with energy and unpredictability.
What united these varied performances was a shared sense of courage - the willingness of young artists to step into the spotlight and present deeply personal forms of creativity. Talent Day became a powerful reminder of the individuality and imagination shaping the next generation of performers.
Day Five: New opportunities and professional exchange
As the festival progressed, attention turned increasingly toward career development and international mentorship.
German jazz vocalist, entertainer, and co-founder of De Phazz, Karl Frierson, led a vocal master class, sharing professional insights drawn from years of international stage experience. Participants explored vocal technique, stage communication, and the realities of sustaining a creative career.
For the MODEL category, international model Valeria Gaiduk conducted a runway workshop that focused on far more than technical movement. Participants worked on posture, confidence, concentration, and professional presentation - qualities essential both on and beyond the runway.
The fifth day reinforced one of ALANGA’s central ideas: talent flourishes most fully when paired with mentorship and access to professional knowledge.
Day Six: The Grand Final
The festival reached its climax at Magic City Park, where ALANGA 2026 concluded with a large-scale Grand Final.
Finalists across MODEL, TALENT (vocal, acting, and collective performance categories) presented showcase performances before audiences, experts, and supporters. Months of preparation and six intensive days of work came together in an evening defined by emotion, celebration, and artistic achievement.
The closing ceremony honored winners, Grand Prix recipients, and participants receiving special international opportunities and partner awards. Yet beyond titles and prizes, the evening celebrated something equally important - the courage to create, perform, and grow.
A Platform for the Future
Words from a person who made it all happen:
“ALANGA is not simply a festival, it is a platform for opportunity,” said Milana Zingerman, owner of the festival. “Our goal is to create an environment where talented young people can step onto the international stage and receive genuine professional support at the beginning of their journey.”
