Türkiye’s Opera and Ballet Festival Opens at Ancient Aspendos Theater

Turkey

World-class performances bring Puccini, Tchaikovsky, and Verdi to a 2,000-year-old Roman stage in Antalya

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.