Istanbul Opera Fest Returns
The 16th International Opera Festival, organized by the Turkish Culture and Tourism Ministry’s State Opera and Ballet, will run from May 10 to June 3 in Istanbul, featuring 11 productions across 20 performances, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency
Held at the Ataturk Cultural Center (AKM), Kadikoy Sureyya Opera Stage, and AKM Theater Hall, the festival will host international artists and ensembles alongside local talent.
Opening with a gala concert led by Sofia Philharmonic’s Nayden Todorov, the evening will honor late Turkish soprano Leyla Gencer. A major highlight is the world premiere of Gilgamesh by Turkish composer Ahmet Adnan Saygun.
Artistic Director Caner Akgun announced premieres such as Cinderella for children, the modern dance piece Delirium, and Sultans of the Opera, a unique Baroque-infused project featuring Turkish themes.
International acts include Bulgaria’s Sofia Opera and Ballet with Electra on May 29, and Russia’s Eifman Ballet performing Anna Karenina on May 31. The festival will close on June 3 with Eifman’s Russian Hamlet.
Akgun emphasized the festival’s mission to blend tradition and innovation, aiming to engage diverse audiences and spotlight Istanbul’s cultural identity.
