Unexpectedly best-preserved of all Roman amphitheaters is located in modern Turkey, in the city of Aspendos. Over many years, this antique open-air theatre has hosted several events, and it still amazes with its perfect acoustics—words spoken in the middle of its stone stage easily reach the last benches. The International Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival is renowned as the most popular event held in this unique location. It annually draws the leading opera and ballet artists from all over the world, as well as numerous attendees, 70% of whom come from overseas.
Program
This year marks the 31st edition of the International Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival. Program highlights include G. Verdi's opera "Aida" on September 13, Borodin’s opera "Prince Igor" on September 16, Tchaikovsky's ballet "Swan Lake" on September 20, the ballet "Carmen & A Fuego Lento" on September 22, Puccini's opera "Tosca" on September 26, and the Gala Concert on September 30.
Schedule
The festival typically occurs in the summer or early autumn, with dates and duration varying each year. This year, it will run from September 13 to September 30, with all performances starting at 9 pm.
Year-round shows, such as the Fire of Anatolia, are held at the Aspendos Arena, a modern facility built around the original amphitheater to help preserve the ancient structure. However, nothing compares to the authentic experience of attending a performance in the original ancient theatre.
Entrance
The tickets may be bought online, in the booking offices of Antalya, Side, Kemer, or other neighboring cities. Ticket prices may include transportation and dinner. However, festival-goers are still encouraged to take some snacks as the performances often start late in the evening. Also, it would be wise to take some raincoats or umbrellas and cushions to sit on unless you're fine with sitting on the stone.
Aspendos is located in Antalya Province, four kilometers north of Serik and only 38 kilometers from Antalya itself.
Festival History
The festival was established on a national level in 1994 and acquired international status in 1998. In 2003, the British Independent Newspaper gave it the 5th position among the world's ten most respectable festivals of that kind. One of the reasons for its popularity is its unique location. Aspendos amphitheater was constructed back in the 2nd century A.D. when the city was under the rule of the Roman Empire. Its creator—a famous Roman architect Zeno—used only top-quality calcareous stone. During the reign of Seljuks, the theatre was turned into a palace and reinforced with bricks. After all, Turkey deserves to be given the proper credit for the excellent conservation of the theatre that remains functional till modern days.
