Cultural events in Istanbul: Int’l artists, performers this week

This week, Istanbul is hosting a variety of cultural events featuring local and international artists. Concerts, exhibitions, theater performances and workshops are lined up for art enthusiasts.

Key performances, concerts in Istanbul

Ataturk Cultural Center (AKM) will feature the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet’s concert titled “For the Homeland” tonight. This event commemorates the July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day.

On July 21, Fatih Citlak will host “Cranes Returning from Karbala,” directed by Yuce Gumus.

Tan Tasci, a songwriter, composer, and performer, starts his 2024 concert series at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Theater tomorrow. “We are excited to present our new repertoire to the audience,” says Tasci.

Workshops, children’s activities in Istanbul

Children’s workshops at AKM include “Ceramic Lace Plate Making,” “Ceramic Portrait Plate Making,” “Colorful Balls with Jackson Pollock,” and “Banksy and Street Art.”

Rahmi M. Koc Museum also hosts weekend workshops for children aged 4 to 14 in the Second-Class Salon of the Fenerbahce Ferry. These activities are designed to engage young minds creatively.

Jazz festival in Istanbul

The 31st Istanbul Jazz Festival concludes with the traditional +1 Night Stroll event on July 18 in Kadikoy. Grammy-nominated Joshua Redman will perform at Esma Sultan Mansion on Wednesday.

A new event, Jazz Night in Pera, features three different artists in three venues on the night of July 17. Ismet Degirmenci combines art with nature during Istanbul Modern’s “Your Thursdays” Artist Meetings on July 18.

Upcoming concerts in Istanbul

Yapi Kredi Bomontiada’s World Acoustic Concert Series will feature rock musician Rana Turkyilmaz on July 19.

Pink Martini, with a large fan base in Türkiye, celebrates their 30th anniversary with a concert at Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Open-Air Theater on July 21. “We can’t wait to perform for our fans in Türkiye,” says the band.

BtcTurk Vadi Open-Air Concerts will feature Can Bonomo on July 19, Athena on July 20, and Melike Sahin on July 21.

KucukCiftlik Park hosts Bruce Dickinson, the world-renowned Iron Maiden lead vocalist, on July 19 as part of his world tour for his new solo album, The Mandrake Project. “Performing in Istanbul is always a special experience,” says Dickinson.

For more information on these events and to purchase tickets, visit the respective venues’ official websites or contact their ticket offices.