International İstanbul Opera and Ballet Festival
From June 1 to 14, art enthusiasts will be treated to the finest examples of opera and ballet. The performances will feature renowned local and international guest star soloists and dancers.
The festival kicks off on June 1 at the AKM Türk Telekom Opera Hall with the opera "The Flying Dutchman." This opera, staged by the İstanbul State Opera and Ballet, will bring to life the mysterious story from the depths of the seas and Richard Wagner's famous composition through a production by guest director Sebastian Welker. The lead role will be performed by guest Dutch artist Martijn Sanders.
The children's opera "The Magic Flute (Tamino’s Dream)" will be presented by the İstanbul State Opera and Ballet (İDOB) on June 2, 3, and 13 at the Kadıköy Municipality Süreyya Opera House.
On June 5, the interactive show "The World of Ballet with Tan Sağtürk" will introduce the magical world of art, music, and classical ballet to young audiences at the Kadıköy Municipality Süreyya Opera House.
On June 5 and 6, the ballet "Zorba," where energy and passion meet dance with the music of Mikis Theodorakis, will be performed by the Ankara State Opera and Ballet.
On June 8, the opera "Madama Butterfly," which tells the poignant story of Cio-Cio-San that deeply affects the audience, will be staged by the Ankara State Opera and Ballet.
On June 11 and 12, the İstanbul State Opera and Ballet orchestra, along with the opera, ballet, modern dance ensembles, chorus, technical crew, and creative teams, will present the choreographic stage cantata "Carmina Burana."
The festival will conclude on June 14 with the award ceremony and gala night of the 6th İstanbul Ballet Competition. This evening will feature breathtaking performances by the shining stars of the ballet world, including Baktiyar Adamzhan, principal dancer of the Astana Opera, Sultan Erol, principal dancer of the Ankara State Opera and Ballet, international guest artist Melih Mertel, Maude Sabourin, principal dancer of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, and Iana Salenko and Marian Walter, principal dancers of the Berlin State Ballet.