If ever anyone dreamed of experiencing the performing arts from within the perfect venue, then Antalya and the Aspendos Antique Theatre is the place to be. Beginning in June 9th with a debut performance of Carmen by the İstanbul State Opera and Ballet, visitors to Antalya can enjoy the 18th Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival, but one magical event in Turkey’s 2011 repertoire.
The festival - courtesy European Festivals Association
For starters, the 2000-year-old Aspendos Antique Theatre is one of Turkey’s best preserve and most protected treasures. Located in Anatolia, not only is the theater a Turkish gem, but one for all Europe and Africa as well. And the acoustics? There’s frankly no place better suited for classic performances. And then there is the eternal historic, natural, and cultural beauty of Antalya.
How often have you seen waterfalls meet the sea? - Courtesy Damien
Imagine a performance of Verde’s Othello, Swan Lake, or a rare performance by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, experienced in such a place out of time. For the lover of classical ballet and music, this is an event to grasp for a lifetime. From June 9th until the final performance of Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca on July 2nd, the opportunity to be there, and in one of Turkey’s most exciting cities (GoTurkey offical site), has arrived.
Kurşunlu waterfall near Antalya - courtesy Tuija Aalto
For more coming events in Turkey, please check out their GoTurkey (the site link) website for listings (PDF form). We encourage you to visit the official site of the Antalya and Samsun State Opera and Ballet box office site as well. To be perfectly honest, if the reader of this article had any idea what wonders await near Antalya – well, you would already have been there. This place is magic.
View of Antalya courtesy our friends at Fotolia
Recommended accomodations include: 5 Star – Kempinski Hotel The Dome (just down the coast), Mardan Palace, and particularly IC Hotels Green Palace (please note however, our searches indicate this hotel is completely booked). 4 Star – Rixos Lares Hotel, Sailor’s Beach Club, and four star value hotel Tutav Adalya Alara Hotel.
