‘Tosca’ brings curtain down on 31st Aspendos Festival
The 31st International Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival, organized by the General Directorate of State Opera and Ballet under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, concluded with a spectacular performance of Giacomo Puccini’s “Tosca“.
The iconic opera was staged by the Antalya State Opera and Ballet at the historic Aspendos Antique Theatre, enchanting audiences with its powerful music and emotional performances.
Star-studded cast brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life
Under the direction of Yigit Gunsoy, the lead role of Floria Tosca was performed by Nurdan Kucukekmekci, with renowned tenor Paolo Lardizzone taking on the role of Mario Cavaradossi.
Serhat Konukman played the role of Il Barone Scarpia, with Alaaddin Ataseven as Cesare Angelotti, Onur Alpaslan as Il Sagrestano, Mustafa Ozsamli as Spoletta, Yusuf Yildiz as Sciarrone, Yalcin Unsal as Un Carceriere, and Melisa Inancoz as Un Pastore.
Collaboration of national orchestras and choirs
The performance saw the joint participation of the Antalya and Izmir State Opera and Ballet orchestras, conducted by Lorenzo Castriota. The Antalya State Opera and Ballet Choir, under the direction of Mahir Seyrek, provided vocal accompaniment to the soloists.
The staging was complemented by set and costume designs by Gulden Sayil, choreography by Ozge Ay, and lighting design by Mustafa Eski.
Special guests and students attend spectacle
The event drew widespread attention from art enthusiasts and notable guests, including Antalya Deputy Governor Suat Seyitoglu, Serik District Governor Cemal Sahin, and Manavgat Mayor Niyazi Nefi Kara. Additionally, over 100 students from the Ibn-i Sina Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School, attending under a special initiative by the Serik District Governorship and the Serik District National Education Directorate with the support of the Antalya Governorship, were present to enjoy the performance.
The International Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival has once again left an indelible mark on Türkiye’s cultural scene, and its grand finale with “Tosca” was a fitting end to the 31st edition of this prestigious event.
