The Life of Afife Jale to Be Staged at Atatürk Cultural Center as a Modern Ballet Adaptation
The Istanbul State Opera and Ballet brings the ballet "Afife", which focuses on the life and stage struggle of Afife Jale, to art lovers in October.
The Istanbul State Opera and Ballet is preparing to stage the ballet "Afife", which tells the story of Afife Jale, one of the pioneers of Turkish theater history, and her struggle to take the stage, at the Atatürk Cultural Center. The production will meet art lovers on October 10, 2026.
Brought to the Stage with Modern Ballet
The Istanbul State Opera and Ballet is preparing to convey Afife Jale’s struggle to take the stage, her loves, and her solitude to art lovers through the language of modern ballet. The work, composed by Turgay Erdener, will be staged with a libretto and choreography by Beyhan Murphy.
A Narrative Moving Backwards into the Past
The production is built upon a fictional structure that progresses backward from the final period of Afife Jale’s life. The story, extending from her solitude at the Bakırköy Mental Hospital where she spent her final years into her past, is portrayed by four different dancers.
A Turning Point in Theater History
Afife Jale, who stepped onto the theater stage despite all obstacles in 1919 when Muslim Turkish women were banned from performing on stage, has become the symbol of a significant breaking point in Turkish theater history. The ballet production addresses this struggle around the axis of freedom and a passion for art.
At AKM Throughout October
Having been staged for the first time in 1998 by the Ankara State Opera and Ballet, the work comes to life once again with a new production by the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet. Following the premiere, the ballet can also be viewed at the AKM on October 14, 15, 17, and 29, 2026.
A Strong Artistic Cast
The production, whose orchestra will be conducted by İbrahim Yazıcı, features set design by Efter Tunç, costume design by Bahar Korçan, lighting design by Cem Yılmazer, and video design by Aisha Hajiyeva. The role of Afife will be shared alternately by İlke Kodal and Melike Manav.