Ancient Stones Echo with Puccini: World-Class Opera Under Mediterranean Stars

Go Turkiye

One of the world's finest preserved Roman theatres transforms into an extraordinary outdoor venue for the 32nd International Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival this September

The production of Giacomo Puccini's beloved opera, "Turandot," will open the festival on Sunday, September 14th, at the historic Aspendos Ancient Theatre in Antalya. Tenor Riccardo Massi and soprano Olga Maslova will take the leading roles in the dramatic tale of the princess who challenges her suitors with impossible riddles.

A Venue Like No Other

What makes this festival truly special isn't just the stellar programming— the venue is extraordinary. The theatre is noted as one of the best-preserved antique theatres in the world. Built during the reign of the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, the numbers are staggering: there are a massive 41 tiers of seats, accommodating 15,000 spectators. Most remarkable is the unique and wonderful acoustics of the 2000-year-old theatre, which means that performances can be heard clearly from the uppermost rows without the need for modern sound amplification.

Beyond opera, on September 17th, audiences can experience the ballet "Zorba," which, according to the statement, "conveys the energy and warmth of Mikis Theodorakis's music and concludes with the iconic sirtaki dance." The programme continues with Tchaikovsky's timeless "Swan Lake", described by organisers as featuring a new interpretation by choreographer Ricardo Amarante. Spanish flair arrives with "Don Quixote."

Planning Your Visit

For culture vultures considering the journey, Aspendos sits conveniently 40 kilometres east of Antalya, making it easily accessible for those staying in Turkey's largest Mediterranean resort. Tickets are available through www.operabale.gov.tr, www.biletinial.com, the SanatCepte app, and official retailers in Antalya.

One practical tip from seasoned festival-goers: bring a cushion. The ancient stone seating, while atmospheric, wasn't designed with modern comfort in mind. However, that small discomfort pales in comparison to the magic of experiencing world-class opera and ballet in one of antiquity's most spectacular settings.