9th International Ephesus Opera and Ballet Festival Begins at the Ancient Theatre

Organized by the General Directorate of State Opera and Ballet of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the International Ephesus Opera and Ballet Festival returns for its 9th edition. The festival will take place from June 26 to July 8, 2026, at the Ephesus Ancient Theatre and the Bornova Culture and Art Center. A total of 5 works—including 1 opera, 2 ballets, 1 stage cantata, and 1 children's play—will be performed in 8 shows. The festival opens with Tchaikovsky's timeless ballet "Swan Lake" on June 26-27 at 9:00 PM, followed by Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana" on June 30 and July 2, and the ballet "Zorba" on July 4-5.

The grand finale on July 8 will feature Giacomo Puccini's dramatic opera "Tosca," with world-renowned Italian tenor Ivan Magrì as a guest artist. Magrì has performed at prestigious venues such as London's Covent Garden, Vienna State Opera, and Milan's La Scala. The festival also caters to young audiences with the musical children's play "Pamira and the Cicada" on June 28 at the Bornova Culture and Art Center, performed in two sessions. This play aims to teach children the importance of listening to nature and discovering the beauty of art.

The enchanting atmosphere of the Ephesus Ancient Theatre promises unforgettable moments by blending history and art. Each performance will resonate through the ancient stones, accompanied by the skilled artists of the Izmir State Opera and Ballet and the Ankara State Opera and Ballet, under the direction of various conductors and choir masters. The festival's program spans a wide range, from classical ballet to modern cantata, opera to children's theater.

This year's festival highlights globally recognized works like "Swan Lake" and "Tosca," while the rhythmic power of "Carmina Burana" and the sirtaki energy of "Zorba" offer diverse cultural experiences. The festival encourages family participation by including children's events. Most performances take place at the Ephesus Ancient Theatre, with the children's play staged in Bornova.

In conclusion, the 9th International Ephesus Opera and Ballet Festival stands out as a must-attend event for art lovers. Offering world-class productions in a historic setting, the festival once again showcases the unifying power of culture and art. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, as in previous years.