The 31st International Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival has officially begun at the historic Aspendos Ancient Theater, delighting nearly 3,000 spectators with a captivating performance of Giuseppe Verdi’s opera Aida. Organized by the Directorate of State Opera and Ballet, the festival promises an extraordinary celebration of classical art, drawing significant attention from opera and ballet lovers worldwide.
A Grand Opening
The festival was inaugurated by Tan Sağtürk, General Director of the Directorate of State Opera and Ballet, who delivered an inspiring speech, setting the tone for the cultural extravaganza. Among the distinguished attendees were Gita Kadambi, General Director of the Finnish State Opera and Ballet, Riitta Kaivosoja from Finland’s Ministry of Education and Culture, and Henrik Dahl, Chairman of the Board of Denmark’s Opera Hedeland.
Verdi’s Aida enchanted the audience, offering an unforgettable experience under the night sky of Aspendos. The stellar performances earned a standing ovation, marking a powerful start to the festival.
Upcoming Highlights
The festival, running until the end of September, is packed with remarkable events. One of the key highlights is the Opera Gala Night on 16 September at 9 p.m., featuring stellar performances by leading soloists including sopranos Çiğdem Soyarslan and Dilan Ayata, mezzo-soprano Ezgi Karakaya, baritone Faik Mansuroğlu, and tenor Mert Süngü. The Antalya State Opera and Ballet Orchestra, conducted by Lorenzo Castriota Skanderbeg, will accompany the singers as they perform selections from renowned composers like Puccini, Verdi, Mozart, Lehar, Gounod, Cilea, Bizet, Rossini, Mascani, and Donizetti.
Tickets for this concert and other festival events are available at the Antalya State Opera and Ballet box offices or online.
Ballet Lovers’ Delight: “Swan Lake”
Ballet enthusiasts can look forward to the iconic Swan Lake on 20 September at 9 p.m., performed by the Izmir State Opera and Ballet. Directed by A. Volkan Ersoy and G. Armağan Davran, this timeless ballet—set to the music of Tchaikovsky—tells the tale of Prince Seigfried and Princess Odette, cursed by the evil magician Rothbart.
The Antalya State Opera and Ballet Orchestra, under the baton of Tolga Taviş, will accompany the production. The stunning set, designed by Gürcan Kubilay, and the elegant costumes by Savaş Camgöz will enhance the magical atmosphere, with lighting by Fuat Gök.
A Fusion of Classical and Contemporary Dance
On 22 September, the Astana Ballet Theater will take the stage at 9 p.m., showcasing an eclectic mix of classical, modern, and folkloric dance styles. Their performances, Carmen and Tango Fire, directed by renowned choreographers Alberto Alonso and Ricardo Amarante, will captivate the audience with a fusion of flamenco and tango rhythms.
Closing Night: “Tosca”
The festival will culminate on 26 September with a performance of Puccini’s Tosca by the Antalya State Opera and Ballet. World-famous tenor Paolo Lardizzone will take on the role of Cavaradossi, with Nurdan Küçükekmekçi as Floria Tosca and Serhat Konukman as Baron Scarpia. The production, directed by Gülden Sayıl (set and costume design), Mustafa Eski (lighting), and Özge Ay (choreography), promises to be a spectacular conclusion to this year’s festival.
The Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival continues to be a cornerstone of the international arts scene, offering audiences the chance to experience world-class performances in one of the world’s most iconic ancient theaters.
Leave a comment