Curtains rise on Sabanci International Adana Theater Festival

The highly anticipated Sabanci International Adana Theater Festival has begun, bringing a vibrant cultural atmosphere to the city.

Organized in collaboration with the Sabanci Foundation and the Directorate-General of State Theaters, the festival marks its 24th edition this year, showcasing the rich theatrical heritage of Adana.

International Adana Theater Festival’s grand opening with colorful parade

As part of the Türkiye Culture Route Festival,” the event kicked off with a lively parade on Ziyapasa Boulevard in Seyhan district.

The procession, which began in front of Hayriye Kemal Kusun Primary School, featured a captivating performance by the Dutch Close Act Theater. Despite rainy weather, enthusiastic spectators gathered at Ugur Mumcu Square to witness the spectacular opening show.

‘Adana loves festivals and cultural events’

Following the parade, the official opening ceremony took place at a hotel, where Adana Governor Yavuz Selim Kosger highlighted the significance of continuity in cultural initiatives.

“It is more important to sustain an initiative than to start one. Organizing the 24th edition of this festival is a remarkable achievement. Adana is a city where artistic activities thrive and receive immense support from its people. We have seen Adana residents queuing overnight for tickets and selling out entire performances in a single night. Adana is a cultural hub, and this festival reflects its deep appreciation for art and aesthetics,” Kosger stated.

‘Theater in Adana is more than entertainment’

Tamer Karadagli, director-general of the State Theaters, emphasized Adana’s cultural legacy, describing it as one of Türkiye’s artistic capitals.

“From the echoes embedded in the stones of Anavarza Ancient Theater to the stage traditions that date back to the Roman era, and from the modern theater movements of the Republican era to contemporary creative arts, Adana carries a deep-rooted theatrical heritage. Here, theater is not merely a form of entertainment; it is a spirit, a memory, and a form of resilience. We take immense pride in bringing artists from around the world to engage with this rich cultural legacy,” Karadagli remarked.

‘A legacy of cultural support from Sabanci Foundation’

Nevgul Bilsel Safkan, general manager of the Sabanci Foundation, expressed her pride in hosting the festival in Adana, emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to arts and culture.

“Our long-standing support for cultural activities has demonstrated the powerful impact of arts on social development. Among all the cultural initiatives we have supported, this theater festival remains the oldest and most deeply rooted,” she said.

Arsen Gurzap honored with lifetime achievement award

Since 2005, the Sakip Sabanci Lifetime Achievement Award has recognized distinguished figures in theater. This year, the prestigious award was presented to acclaimed actress Arsen Gurzap.

Expressing gratitude, Gurzap reflected on the responsibilities of an actor: “An actor’s duty is to live a dignified life, both on and off stage. Whether performing or simply walking down the street, one must remain a worthy representative of their craft, upholding honor and integrity.”

A global theater celebration

Running until April 27, the festival will host a total of 45 theater ensembles, featuring performances from state theaters across Türkiye, including those from Ankara, Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, Bursa, Adana, Kayseri, Konya, Diyarbakir, Sivas, Trabzon and Van.

Additionally, international theater groups from the Netherlands, France, Georgia, Germany, Poland, Spain, Kazakhstan and Brazil will take the stage, offering audiences a diverse selection of global performances.

The festival will also feature workshops on playwriting, Karagoz shadow puppetry, magic hats, and painting for children, making it a truly immersive cultural experience.