‘Nutcracker’ ballet returns to Ankara for 10th season, becoming new year’s tradition
Ballets take part in the general rehearsal of Nutcracker, written by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, rewritten by Alexander Dumas, to be performed by Ankara State Opera and Ballet for the first time in the 10th season in Ankara, Türkiye, November 29, 2024. (AA Photo)
Ankara State Opera and Ballet (ADOB) is set to bring the timeless masterpiece “The Nutcracker” back to the stage for its 10th season in Ankara.
The first performance of the season will take place today at the Opera Stage, with tickets selling out as soon as they became available.
‘Nutcracker’ – beloved winter classic
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker,” based on the story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” by E.T.A. Hoffmann and adapted by Alexandre Dumas, is one of the most performed ballets worldwide.
The story, set around a New Year’s Eve party in Germany, follows the transformation of a nutcracker doll into a prince, sparking a magical adventure. This production marks Tchaikovsky’s final ballet composition, created in 1891, and was first performed in 1892 at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Iconic new year tradition
“The Nutcracker” is known for being featured in many of the world’s most renowned opera houses during the festive season.
Its winter theme, along with the involvement of young dancers, has made it a captivating performance for audiences of all ages.
Anticipation builds for first performance
The first performance of “The Nutcracker” this season is highly anticipated. Directed and choreographed by Mehmet Balkan, with set design by Tayfun Cebi and Olaf Zombeck, costume design by Sevtac Demirer, and lighting design by Fuat Gok, this production promises to be a visual feast. The ADOB Orchestra will be conducted by Kandemir Artun Hoinic.
The talented cast includes Kadir Okurer as the Nutcracker, Ilhan Durgut as the Prince, Deniz Derelioglu as Clara, Berkay Saracoglu as the Prince of the Flower Waltz, Gizem Caliskan as the Good Fairy, Hakan Odabasi as Drosselmeyer, and Umutcan Arzuman as Clara’s boyfriend.
Behind scenes: Performers share their excitement
Sultan Erol, who plays the Sugar Fairy, expressed her deep connection to the role, having performed in “The Nutcracker” for seven seasons. “This work is very special to me because it was my first leading role as the Sugar Fairy,” she said, reflecting on her journey with the ballet.
Deniz Derelioglu, who plays Clara, shared her enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I am playing a young girl, and the story depicts a dream where Clara encounters mice, toy soldiers, and various dances. It’s a fantastic role to perform, and I truly enjoy dancing for it. The music is wonderful, and it brings joy to both us and the audience. We have been performing to full houses for years, and we’re very grateful for the continued support from our audiences.”
Kadir Okurer, who has been playing the Nutcracker since 2007, added, “The winter theme and the involvement of children in the performance make ‘The Nutcracker’ especially captivating. It has been a favorite for years, and it has been particularly successful in the last two years, always playing to full houses. We are incredibly happy with the attention and support we’ve received.”
Heartwarming tradition for all ages
“The Nutcracker” ballet has become a cherished holiday tradition in Ankara, captivating audiences with its magical story, stunning choreography, and beautiful music. With its 10th season, the production continues to draw crowds, solidifying its place as a holiday favorite in the city’s cultural landscape.
