Greek singer Vandi's Türkiye concert canceled over Turkish flag and Ataturk poster dispute

The concert of renowned Greek singer Despina Vandi in Cesme, Izmir, was abruptly canceled because she allegedly demanded the removal of the Turkish flag and a poster of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk from the stage

The concert, organized by the Turkish Education Foundation’s (TEV) Izmir branch for the benefit of education, was scheduled to take place at Cesme Open-Air Theatre.

The audience eagerly awaited Vandi’s performance, but she did not take the stage. As time passed with no explanation, unrest grew among the audience.

Eventually, Gulnur Sonbayraktar, head of the TEV’s Izmir Branch, took the stage to announce that the artist could not perform due to unforeseen circumstances and that ticket refunds would be available for those who wanted them.

Following this announcement, the concert proceeded with the TEV choir performing the “Izmir March,” with the audience enthusiastically joining in.

Greek singer Vandi's Türkiye concert canceled over Turkish flag and Ataturk poster dispute — The audience sang along to the songs of the TEV choir after Destina Vandi’s concert was canceled, Cesme Mayor Lal Denizli (R), in Izmir, Türkiye, July 17, 2024. (Photo by AA Photo)

Strong reaction from Cesme mayor

Cesme Mayor Lal Denizli addressed the crowd, explaining that Despina Vandi refused to perform because she demanded the removal of the Turkish flag and Ataturk poster from the stage.

Denizli stated, “No power can attempt to take down our flag or Atatürk’s poster. It cannot even be imagined. This lady should leave the city’s borders immediately.”

Denizli emphasized that the concert was for the benefit of education and that the municipality had provided all necessary support.

However, he found the incident unacceptable, adding, “We have sacrificed many martyrs to win these lands, and we are always believers in and committed to the idea that brotherhood and eternal friendship will prevail.”

She concluded her speech by expressing his hope that this incident would serve as a lesson for Vandi, saying, “May she never even think of lowering the flag of any country she visits. I hope this serves as a historical lesson for her.”

The concert continued with songs from the TEV choir as the audience tried to recover from the shock of the event.