The Life of Afife Jale Staged by the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet
The life of Afife Jale, a pioneer of Turkish theatre, meets art lovers in a production bearing Beyhan Murphy's signature.
The life of Afife Jale, a pioneer of Turkish theatre, is brought to the stage in a special ballet production with a libretto and choreography by Beyhan Murphy.
The Life of Afife Jale Brought to the Stage Through Ballet
The life of Afife Jale, who paved the way for Turkish female actors and fit a profound passion for theatre into her 39-year life, is presented to audiences through the ballet 'Afife', staged by the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet.
A Dramatic Life Story Told in Four Parts
At the center of the work are the artist's experiences at the Bakırköy Mental Hospital, as well as her dance with shadows and the past. Told in four sections named Gold, Red, Purple, and Silver, each part is performed by a different dancer.
Stage Bans and Years Full of Struggle
Although Afife Jale's passion and determination for the stage encountered the bans of the period preventing Turkish women from performing, the artist never gave up her struggle. Although she found a renewed joy for life through Atatürk's reforms in the Republic, she had to bid farewell to her dreams due to health issues.
Rich Musical Infrastructure and Orchestra
In the music of the piece, which bears the signature of Turgay Erdener, the final section features the orchestra directed by İbrahim Yazıcı coming together with the kanun, including works by Selahattin Pınar, to whom the artist was married for a period.
Afife's World Through the Eyes of Beyhan Murphy
Choreographer Beyhan Murphy states that while creating the work, she brought emotions of courage, determination, and perseverance to the forefront. The production has been updated and staged for different companies since 1998.