Turkish ballet dancer to perform lead role in Athens’ ‘Zorba’ Ballet

Turkish ballet dancer Ilhan Durgut, a principal dancer with Ankara State Opera and Ballet (ADOB), was invited to perform in the iconic “Zorba” ballet in Athens on Oct. 9.

Durgut will take on John’s lead role in this renowned production, marking his first solo performance abroad.

Prestigious invitation from Greece

“Zorba,” based on the world-famous novel by Nikos Kazantzakis, was adapted for the stage with music by legendary composer Mikis Theodorakis and choreography by Lorca Massine.

The ballet was previously performed by ADOB last season after a five-year hiatus, with Durgut playing John alongside Eren Keles as Zorba.

Following the success of this production in Türkiye, the Greek National Opera has extended a special invitation to Durgut for their season-opening performance of “Zorba.”

Speaking to the Anadolu Agency (AA), Durgut shared his excitement: “I have been dancing with Ankara State Opera and Ballet since 2011. It’s an honor to be invited to perform in Athens. I will be dancing the role of John on Oct. 9, and this will be my first solo performance outside Türkiye. I am incredibly excited.”

Global tour in honor of Theodorakis

The Athens performance is part of a global celebration of Mikis Theodorakis.

In 2025, the world will commemorate the 100th anniversary of Theodorakis’ birth with a worldwide “Zorba” tour, including performances in London, Paris, Rome and Melbourne.

“The performance in Athens on Oct.9 will be the starting point of this tour,” said Durgut.

Being invited by Greece, especially through such a personal invitation to Ankara State Opera and Ballet, makes me feel truly special.”

The global tour will also celebrate the 60th anniversary of Theodorakis composing the music for “Zorba.”

Rigorous rehearsal process

Reflecting on his preparations, Durgut revealed the demanding rehearsal schedule: “Rehearsals are long and intense, but we always strive for excellence.

We rehearsed with Lorca Massine himself last season, and the experience was both challenging and deeply educational.”

Durgut will first rehearse with a 40-member team in Slovenia before heading to Athens for the October performance.

“I feel incredibly privileged to have worked under Massine’s guidance. His energy is unique, and his knowledge of every detail in ‘Zorba’ is unparalleled since he originally choreographed it,” he said.

Bright future for Turkish ballet abroad

At 31 years old, Durgut continues to hone his craft and maintain his physical fitness to prolong his career. “As a dancer, the more you take care of yourself, the longer your career lasts. I feel great and intend to keep dancing,” he said.

Durgut is also in talks with countries like northern Ireland and the U.K., aiming to represent Türkiye on more international stages.

“I want to thank Ankara State Opera and Ballet for granting me the opportunity, and I am immensely grateful to Lorca Massine and the Greek National Opera for their invitation,” he concluded.

With his performance in Athens, Durgut hopes to bring further recognition to Turkish ballet on the global stage.