Leyli and Majnun — The First Opera of the East
In 1908 the Taghiyev Theatre staged the first opera of the Muslim world, written by 22-year-old Uzeyir Hajibeyli.
On 25 January 1908 the Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev Theatre in Baku premiered the opera "Leyli and Majnun" — the first opera in the Muslim world.
How it came about
Its composer, Uzeyir Hajibeyli, was just 22. He based it on Fuzuli's poem of the tragic love of Leyli and Majnun and combined European operatic form with mugham: singers improvised in traditional modes accompanied by tar and kamancha. A new genre was born — mugham opera.
The premiere
Young singer Huseyngulu Sarabski sang Majnun, and, as was customary then, Leyli was also played by a man. The hall was packed, and the opera's success launched Azerbaijan's professional school of composition.
Where to see it today
"Leyli and Majnun" is still performed at the Azerbaijan State Opera and Ballet Theatre, a beautiful 1911 building on Nizami Street. Check the programme for your dates — it's a special evening. Read more about Azerbaijani music.
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