Miracle Theater receives standing ovation in Kayseri performance
The Miracle Theater troupe, operating under the Western Thrace Minority Graduates Association, received a standing ovation for its performance of Fehim Pasha Mansion in Kayseri, Türkiye.
Directed by Senemahu Topuz, the play was staged at the Kayseri State Theater and brought to life the beloved work of renowned Turkish playwright Turgut Özakman. The young actors’ moving performances deeply resonated with the audience, who applauded for several minutes at the end of the show.
Warm Welcome from Officials and the Public
Among those in attendance were Türkiye’s Consul General in Komotini (Gümülcine), Aykut Ünal, and his wife İlayda Ünal, who attended the performance while on leave. The couple made a point of supporting the troupe during its visit to Kayseri.
The theater group traveled from Greece to Kayseri, enduring a 15-hour journey, and was hosted at the Erciyes Youth Camp. During their stay, the performers explored Kayseri’s rich cultural heritage, visiting the Seljuk Museum, Kayseri Castle, and the Ottoman Street, while also enjoying local culinary delights.
Strong Support for Cultural Exchange
Local leaders including Pınarbaşı Mayor Deniz Yağan and Talas Mayor Mustafa Yalçın were also present at the event. Both expressed their admiration for the youth and emphasized the importance of cultural engagement and artistic exchange.
Acknowledgements and Reflections
After the performance, Dr. Hüseyin Baltacı, President of the Western Thrace Minority Graduates Association, took to the stage to thank the city of Kayseri for its warm hospitality. He especially acknowledged the support of Kayseri State Theater, Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality, and Talas Municipality. As a gesture of appreciation, he presented Mayor Mustafa Yalçın with flowers and a gift, stating, “This warm welcome truly moved us.”
“Kayseri Was a Special Choice,” Says Consul General
Consul General Aykut Ünal explained his decision to join the event, saying:
“When planning this trip, I specifically chose Kayseri. It’s not just my hometown—it’s a city where history, culture, and tolerance come together. The fact that these young people had already visited Edirne and Istanbul made this stop all the more meaningful. Kayseri’s embrace of the arts truly impressed us.”
Director Senemahu Topuz: “We Felt Wrapped in Cotton”
Director Senemahu Topuz expressed deep gratitude to the Kayseri audience, saying:
“From the start to the end of the play, the hall was full. We made eye contact, we felt their energy, and the applause was more than a thank you—it was a memory our young actors will carry for life. On stage and off, Kayseri embraced us. We truly felt as if we were wrapped in cotton.”
