For those who want to start the new year with a fresh energy, Istanbul offers a full calendar of events in January! Stages all around the city open their doors to art lovers with special concerts and fascinating theater plays. Whether you want to soothe your soul with the melodies of a world-renowned orchestra or find yourself in different worlds with award-winning theater performances, January will offer you unique moments. In this article, discover the concerts and theater events that warm Istanbul's cold winter evenings with art!

"Storm and Ecstasy" concert to be realized with the cooperation of Istanbul State Symphony Orchestra and DenizBank invites you to an unforgettable evening of music. Baritone Kartal Karagedik and double bass player Deniz Yurdakul, who will take the stage under the direction of conductor Murat Cem Orhan, will offer unique performances to the audience. The program includes enchanting works by W.A. Mozart, F. Schubert, J. Sperger and J. Haydn. In this special event for classical music lovers, a night full of melodies that nourish your soul awaits you!

Willy Russell's unforgettable masterpiece, "Blood Brothers," tells the story of twin brothers Mickey and Edward, born in the poor neighborhoods of Liverpool. Separated at birth, the twins lead vastly different lives but reunite later in a deep and meaningful friendship. This captivating musical, performed by the Ankara State Theater and directed by Ebru Kara, delves into universal themes such as class differences, social injustice, and friendship. Having been staged in England for many years, this poignant story promises theatergoers an emotional and thought-provoking journey.

An ordinary dinner hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Smith, an English bourgeois couple, takes a bizarre turn when their guests, Mr. and Mrs. Martin, arrive. This seemingly mundane gathering spirals into absurd chaos filled with nonsensical events and incomprehensible dialogues. As the Fire Chief makes an inexplicable appearance and the concept of time begins to dissolve, reality is called into question. This play challenges the audience's expectations, highlighting the futility of trying to untangle the narrative.

"Pride and Prejudice (Sort Of)" brings a fresh perspective to Jane Austen's classic novel. This time, the story is narrated from the perspective of the servants rather than the lovers, shaped by gossip, scandals, and laughter. Women who have long remained in the background finally find their voices in the world of noble men and ladies. Isobel McArthur's innovative and humorous adaptation adds a playful and rebellious twist to Austen's timeless work.

One of the most anticipated productions of the year, "Dracula," comes to life under the direction of Okan Bayülgen as a joint production of BKM and Kabare Dada. Bayülgen breathes life into the legendary character of Dracula, while Hayko Cepkin takes on the role of Van Helsing. The story is set 77 years after the original novel, revisiting a pivotal period from the past. The captivating atmosphere of the play is complemented by a live orchestra, including Ahmet Güvenç, the bassist of Kurtalan Ekspres.

This impactful play reveals how the ideal system established by animals in their quest for equality and justice gradually turns into a dictatorship. What begins as a justified rebellion transforms into a new form of oppression and injustice due to the corrupting effect of power. This piece questions deep societal and human issues, offering a striking story that will make the audience reflect on concepts such as freedom, power, and justice.

The Mor ve Ötesi musical, brought to life by the iconic songs of Mor ve Ötesi, presents a contemporary interpretation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. With a strong cast and live orchestra, this special production brings the search for truth into the modern world. Bringing new breath to musical theater in Turkey, Araf promises the audience an unforgettable experience.

Written by Firuze Engin and directed by Güray Dinçol, Ugly invites the audience to witness a fairytale of betrayal. Featuring the lead performances of Nihal Yalçın and Onur Berk Arslanoğlu, this innovative play combines narrative theater with digital installations, inspired by Anatolian fairy tales and traditions. Ugly blends various theatrical styles with modern theater elements, creating a mythical and surreal universe combined with technology for an unparalleled stage experience.

The Ahtamar Legend brings the timeless tale of love and passion to life through music and dance. Inspired by the poem of poet Hovhannes Tumanyan, and brought to life by the enchanting compositions of Majak Toşikyan, this special performance is staged by the Maral Music and Dance Ensemble, celebrating its 45th year. With 70 dancers, 3 soloists, and a large team, the performance takes the audience on a legendary journey from this land.

Popular writer Paul Sheldon is held captive by his obsessive fan Annie Wilkes in this thrilling play, taking the audience to the peak of psychological violence and fear. Annie's obsession with the character Misery forces Paul into a terrifying fight for survival. Don’t miss this unforgettable, tension-filled experience; a show that will pin you to your seat!