Ulduz Saleh gizi Rafili-Aliyeva (Azerbaijani: Ulduz Saleh qızı Rəfili; 15 December 1922, Ganja, Goranboy region – 2006, Baku) was an Azerbaijani and Soviet theater director, professor, Honored Art Worker of the Azerbaijan SSR (1964).[1] She was the first Azerbaijani woman to become a professional theater director.[2]
Ulduz Rafili was born on 15 December 1922 in Ganja.[3] Her father died before she was born and her mother got married for a second time.[4] When her mother died in 1935 Rafili started living with her older sister in Moscow.[1]
In 1938, she graduated from Industrial College in Moscow.[4] Later she continued studies in Moscow.[5] Rafili entered the Institute of Railway Engineers where she studied and worked as a station attendant in the Moscow metro and as a machinist on an electric train.[2]
Rafili returned to Baku in 1945. There she entered the faculty of directing of the present University of Culture and Arts, graduating in 1951.[2]
In 1952, Rafili started working as a director in the Young Spectator's Theatre in Baku.[6] During next 20 years she directed over 50 performances on the stage of the theater.[3] Rafili became the first female theater director in Azerbaijan.[6] Many performances staged by Rafili have won All-Union festivals and been awarded diplomas and prizes.[2]
In 1963-1967, Rafili was elected a deputy, engaged in active socio-political activities.[2]
