As part of the BBŞT Academy Talks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Süreyya Karacabey delivered a lecture titled “The Long Journey of Theatre” on World Theatre Day. Explaining the historical development of theatre from Ancient Greece to the present, Karacabey emphasized that each era creates its own aesthetic understanding. The well-attended event explored how theatre has transformed alongside changing societies and individuals.

The Bornova Municipality City Theatre (BBŞT) Academy Talks hosted a significant event within the scope of World Theatre Day. Held at the Zerrin Gençtürk Additional Service Building and Urbanism Library, the talk by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Süreyya Karacabey provided a comprehensive overview of the historical evolution of theatre. With strong participation, attendees gained an in-depth perspective on theatre’s transformation from its origins to today.

A journey from Ancient Greece to the present

Karacabey noted that while concrete information about the origins of theatre is limited, Ancient Greece remains a key reference point. She highlighted Aristotle’s Poetics as a foundational source in theatre theory, stating that tragedy and comedy have continued to influence theatre up to the present day. She also explained that after transformations during the Roman period, theatre experienced a decline in the Middle Ages, only to rise again with the Renaissance.

A leap with Shakespeare, a transformation with Hegel

Karacabey pointed out that theatre gained significant momentum in the post-Renaissance period, with figures such as William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe playing a decisive role. She added that later, Hegel’s concept of “historicity” introduced a new perspective to theatre, emphasizing that each era develops its own aesthetic and mode of expression.

From the Ottoman era to today: From tradition to the modern stage

Karacabey explained that in the Ottoman period, theatrical forms developed within a guild system similar to that of Medieval Europe, noting that the “kavuk” tradition was part of this structure. She highlighted the shift from anonymous forms to works bearing the individual signature of the artist as a significant turning point.

“All the world’s a stage”: Changing people, changing theatre

Emphasizing that theatre is directly linked to how people perceive the world, Karacabey stated that stage language has evolved from religious narratives to modern realities. “Each era creates its own sensibility and form,” she said, underlining that the legacy of the past can only be sustained by adapting it to the spirit of the present.