Tourexpi
The
32nd Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival has opened in spectacular
fashion at the ancient Aspendos Theater, one of the world’s best-preserved
Roman theaters. The festival, organized by Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and
Tourism, showcases the fusion of history and artistry in the Mediterranean
resort city of Antalya.
Opening
night: Puccini’s Turandot
The
festival curtain rose with Puccini’s Turandot, staged in collaboration between
the Ankara and Antalya State Opera and Ballet. Directed by Italian stage
director Vincenzo Grisostomi Travaglini, the production brought the drama of
the Far East legend to life.
Internationally
acclaimed soprano Olga Maslova starred as Princess Turandot, while tenor Riccardo
Massi performed the role of Calaf. They were joined by the Ankara State Opera
and Ballet Orchestra, conducted by Lorenzo Castriota Skanderbeg, and the
combined choirs of Ankara and Antalya under the direction of Mahir Seyrek and Ivan
Pekhov.
A
festival of classics under the stars
The
ancient theater’s 2,000-year-old stone stage will host further masterpieces
throughout September:
·
Zorba – September 17
·
Swan Lake – September 20
·
Don Quixote – September 24
·
Tosca – September 27
·
La Traviata – guest performance
closing the festival
A
living link between past and present
Performing
amidst the grandeur of Aspendos highlights Türkiye’s unique ability to unite
cultural heritage with contemporary artistry. The festival continues to attract
audiences from across the globe, offering unforgettable evenings where opera
and ballet echo beneath the stars of Antalya.
Image
Credit: © AA
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