‘Ballerina’ traces a child’s journey from dream to stage

SAMSUN

The stage came to life on April 29 as the Samsun State Opera and Ballet unveiled its latest production, the enchanting “Ballerina.”

The production tells the story of a young girl raised by a ballerina mother, following her journey from childhood dreams of becoming a dancer to her eventual debut on stage as a professional artist.

The work, with a libretto and direction by Görkem Cengiz, features music by Antonio Vivaldi, Fırat Aktav, Çağaç Arın Öztornacı, Özdeğer Bilgen and Anna Tarakanova Shvetcov. It consists of 11 different choreographies created by Buse Cengiz, Damla Oktay, Rüya Özvar, Arzu Kaya, Zeynep Bengier, Özlem Özdemir, Yunus Emre Örgüt and Çağıl Han Öztornacı.

Set and costume design is by Zekiye Şimşek, lighting design by Oğuz Murat Yılmaz and video projection design by Murat Turgut.

The premiere that took place at the Atatürk Cultural Center Aydın Gün Stage, will also be on stage with additional performances on May 2, 14 and 16.

Speaking to state-run Anadolu Agency, SAMDOB principal ballet instructor and choreographer Yunus Emre Örgüt said the production features a wide variety of dance styles that will surprise audiences.

“There is classical ballet, absurd ballet and demi-classical ballet. This diversity enriches the piece and offers dancers a unique experience. We created something truly beautiful together and had a wonderful time. We are confident audiences will enjoy it,” he said.

Choreographer Rüya Özvar noted that the production is the result of approximately six weeks of work and runs for about an hour. She added that video projections will accompany transitions between choreographies, visually depicting the girl’s growth and evolving dreams.

“With each transition, we imagine her dreaming anew as she grows. Audiences can expect a very vibrant and colorful premiere,” Özvar said.

Choreographer Damla Oktay stated that 31 dancers will perform in the production, including 11 from the children’s ballet division of SAMDOB. She added that her two choreographies, “Invitame” and “Lal,” explore different themes, from humor to the life story of a cellist.

SAMDOB Technical Director Talip Ata said the production combines 11 choreographies by eight choreographers, supported by visual elements filmed outdoors and integrated into the stage performance.

“For the first time, we are presenting such a work. Audiences will watch these visuals continue live on stage through the dancers’ performances,” he said.

Lighting designer Oğuz Murat Yılmaz added that the production blends classical, postmodern and demi-classical elements, allowing audiences to also experience “the choreography of light” alongside the dance.