Orta Oyunu (EN)

Short Movie of the Project

Orta Oyunu: A Journey from Tradition to the Future

What is Orta Oyunu?

Orta Oyunu, a traditional improvisational theatre of Turkey, is one of the most significant examples of the country’s cultural heritage. Often compared to commedia dell’arte, this form of theatre is known for its wit, humor, and improvisation. With characters like Pişekar, the witty and wise narrator, and Kavuklu, the comical everyman, Orta Oyunu reflects the richness of Turkish culture while addressing social and moral issues through its entertaining narratives. Performances feature colorful costumes, traditional music, and vivid storytelling, creating an engaging experience for audiences of all ages.


A Cultural Bridge Between Berlin and Istanbul

APIDA e.V. (Berlin) and Atölye Tiyatrosu (Istanbul) have come together to bring Orta Oyunu to life for modern audiences. This collaboration aims to celebrate Turkish culture, language, and theatre by adapting this traditional art form for a contemporary context.

With its extensive experience in social and cultural projects across Europe, APIDA e.V. joins forces with Atölye Tiyatrosu, a theatre group committed to keeping traditional Turkish theatre alive through modern methods. Together, they aim to create a platform for exploring Turkish culture and language while fostering cultural awareness and understanding in Europe.


The Orta Oyunu: A Journey from Tradition to the Future Program offers participants the opportunity to experience Turkish through practice and explore the cultural and historical richness of Türkiye.

Participants will:

  • Engage in the world of traditional Turkish theatre, experiencing Turkish through an enjoyable and interactive learning process.
  • Discover key elements of Turkish culture and history through presentations and interactive games.
  • Gain confidence and self-expression skills through improvisation, theatre, and character analysis.

The Path to the Stage: Let the Play Begin!

At the end of the program, participants will perform an adaptation of Orta Oyunu. This performance will highlight characters such as Pişekar, Kavuklu, Zenne, and Çelebi, combining traditional aesthetics with modern themes.

The Performance Will Include:

  • Authentic costumes and stage design inspired by traditional Turkish theatre.
  • A narrative connecting the Turkish language with cultural and historical elements.
  • A unique opportunity for participants to showcase their learning and creativity.

This performance not only aims to promote Turkish culture internationally but also provides participants with an unforgettable experience.


Expanding Orta Oyunu Beyond Borders

This project is not only a celebration of Turkish culture but also a valuable opportunity to enhance the skills, knowledge, and competencies of the participants, particularly those with a connection to Turkish heritage living in Berlin. By fostering personal growth and cultural awareness, the program contributes to the social and cultural enrichment of the community as a whole, aligning with broader societal goals in Germany.

Moreover, Orta Oyunu: A Journey from Tradition to the Future is designed to be inclusive, appealing to anyone interested in Turkish culture and language. While the initial focus is on participants with a background in Turkish heritage, the program has the potential to evolve into a multicultural platform that welcomes diverse audiences and participants. This could lead to performances featuring a broader range of perspectives, creating a richer and more inclusive cultural exchange.

By promoting Orta Oyunu on an international scale, APIDA e.V. demonstrates its commitment to bridging cultures and fostering mutual understanding. With its roots in Berlin and a foundation of successful international projects, APIDA e.V. is uniquely positioned to take this traditional Turkish theatre to global audiences, building connections and inspiring dialogue across borders.

This initiative not only serves as a platform for sharing Turkish culture but also reinforces the importance of intercultural collaboration, aligning with the vision of a more inclusive and connected world.


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Feel Free to Contact Us for Any Questions or Inquiries

For any questions, feedback, or collaboration requests regarding our program, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us:


Orta Oyunu: A Journey from Tradition to the Future” is dedicated to promoting Turkish culture on an international scale and passing it on to future generations. This program represents a journey that begins in Berlin and carries the vision of strengthening cultural connections across borders.

Join us on this remarkable theatrical journey and explore the rich world of Turkish theatre together!