Ulaanbaatar
The State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet to Stage "Lambugain Nulims" Opera for the 39th Year
Society
Ulaanbaatar, May 8, 2025 /MONTSAME/. The State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Mongolia will soon present the Opera "Lambugain Nulims" [A Venerable Monk’s Tears] by Laureate of the State Premium of Mongolia Bilegjargal Khaltar in May 2025.
On the 17th and 18th of this month, a three-act, six-scene Opera lasting 100 minutes will be conducted for the first time by Telmuun-Ochir Tsogtkhuu, the youngest Principal Conductor in the history of the State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet. This Opera is based on the classical short story "Lambugain Nulims" by legendary Mongol Writer Natsagdorj Dashdorj, with the libretto written by Hero of Labour of Mongolia and People’s Writer of Mongolia Lkhagvasuren Bavuu, and music composed by Laureate of the State Premium of Mongolia Bilegjargal Khaltar. It was directed by Honored Cultural Worker of Mongolia Erdenebulgan Lkhagva and premiered on May 10, 1986.
Inspired by a true-life story in 19th-century Mongolia, this Opera is considered one of the masterpieces of Mongolia ever performed on the stage of the State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet. The storyline unfolds as Gevsh Lodon, a monk, falls madly in love with a young woman named Tserenkham, whom he encounters by chance. Overcome with passion, he devotes his heart and wealth to her without hesitation. However, under the influence of her cunning and greedy mother, Tserenkham ultimately abandons Lodon’s love, knowing that a monk cannot take a wife, and chooses to marry a wealthy young man instead. Upon learning of her betrayal, Lodon is devastated and pleads tearfully, but his breach of monastic vows does not remain hidden for long. Branded with shame and mocked by society, he is left weeping alone on the streets of the capital.
“Lambugain Nulims” Opera is regarded as the only Mongolian opera to stand alongside the world’s classical masterpieces in the national opera repertoire of Mongolia. In 2011, to commemorate its 48th anniversary, the State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet presented a renewed production of the Opera, featuring updated set design and costumes.
