Turkmenistan continues its work to develop and promote its national culture and arts internationally. One area of focus is the development of circus arts, in which the ‘Galkynyş’ National Equestrian Games Group plays an important role, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’.

The troupe was founded in 2007 on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Today, ‘Galkynyş’ showcases Turkmenistan’s cultural heritage on the international stage and takes part in state events and major cultural projects.

A special feature of the troupe’s performances is the Ahal-Teke racehorses and the complex equestrian acrobatic acts, which showcase the skill of the Turkmen riders.

The ‘Galkynyş’ troupe has taken part in international circus festivals and has won prestigious awards. These include the top prizes at the ‘IDOL’ World Circus Arts Festival in Moscow (2013), the 16th International Circus Festival in Latina (Italy, 2014), the 2nd International Circus Arts Festival in the People’s Republic of China (2015), the 2nd World Nomad Games in Cholpon-Ata (Kyrgyz Republic, 2016), as well as the ‘Golden Gaetano’ statuette at the ‘Na Fontanke’ festival in St Petersburg (2018).

In 2025, the troupe gained international recognition at the 47th International Circus Arts Festival in Monte Carlo (Principality of Monaco), where it was awarded the Grand Prix, as well as a number of special prizes.

In January 2026, at the 48th International Festival of Circus Arts in Monte Carlo, the ‘Galkynyş’ National Equestrian Games Group received international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association for its contribution to the development of circus arts.

The troupe continues to take part in international events, representing the Turkmen circus school and fostering cultural ties between countries. ‘Galkynyş’ performances combine elements of equestrian art, acrobatics and the traditional culture of Turkmenistan.