Seferihisar is a district in western Izmir region of Turkey. Some local women are involved with a theater group of this district. They discovered that within the power of art lies confidence and social interaction.
Daily Sabah reported on Thursday that all ages can participate in the theater called 'Urkmez', which is part of Izmir's village theater industry. One of the theater ladies is 75-year-old Aye Duruk. He attended the theater with his daughter and granddaughter.
Aye Duruk said that in the past, he used to feel shy even if he walked past the village coffeehouse. Now he is a respected man in that coffeehouse. Duruk says, 'Earlier I was hesitant to walk past a coffeehouse. But after joining theatre, I also acted there. People recognize me and greet me with respect. I found confidence.'
Another member of the theater is 85-year-old Muzgan Hasdemir. After 65 years of marriage, she lost her husband five months ago. Muzgan reinvented himself by joining Urkmez Theater. She said, 'After losing my husband, I felt empty. Later attended Turkish classical music course and heard about this theater. Acting broadened my horizons. I used to feel very small. My 85th birthday was celebrated in this theater just last week.'
74-year-old Emin Kir was able to forget the sorrow of losing a child by joining Urkmez theater. He said, 'I thought I couldn't do it because of my sadness. But I have been here for three years now. My health has improved. I feel 25 again. I may not be educated, but I prepare myself for my role.'
59-year-old Güle Erdogan was diagnosed with cancer in 2021. After spending 47 days in the intensive care unit, he joined the theater group. Gule said that theater is helping him to recover. He said, 'It gave me strength when I needed it most.'
One of the male actors of Urkmez Theater is Tejkan Alkut. He is 81 years old. Joined this group in 2017 after battling cancer. He said, 'Theatre was the passion of my youth. I found this on Urkmez. My therapy is done here.'
“We don't have auditions,” said Vedat Murat Guzel, Izmir's Village Theater Art Coordinator, about Urkmez Theater's activities. We believe that everyone has a place on stage. These plays are not only performances but also a part of therapy for the participants. It is an inclusive activity, which strengthens society.'
The theater group mainly focuses on bringing women's stories to the stage. Guzel said, 'We select plays that address women's issues and we try to be the voice of women. Women find their voice and become more mature through theatre. He dares to speak.'
