Turkish State Theatres

The Turkish State Theatres, founded on June 16, 1949, has since its inception aimed to enhance the nation's linguistic and cultural landscape, elevate the collective knowledge of Turkish society through both national and international plays, and foster the growth and exploration of Turkish theatre domestically while promoting it abroad. A key objective has been to exemplify the use of the Turkish language, cultivating an appreciation for artistry and aesthetics within the public.

The Turkish State Theatres played a pioneering role in the formation of a national theatre tradition, gradually incorporating works by Turkish playwrights into its repertoire alongside staging masterpieces of European theatre. With the establishment of regional theatres, it has steadily expanded its reach, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of Turkish arts and culture.

Now in its 75th year, the Turkish State Theatres operates 56 stages in 24 cities, offering a carefully curated and diverse repertoire. Nightly, it opens its curtains across Türkiye, presenting nearly 200 different productions in around 6,000 performances annually, both domestically and internationally.

Committed to cultural exchange, the Turkish State Theatre hosts seven international theatre festivals from February to June each year, connecting Turkish audiences with theatre companies and cultures from around the world. Alongside its regular winter and summer seasons, the "Festival Season" has become a tradition, during which approximately 50 international theatre groups perform for an audience of nearly 250,000.