Egyptian artist takes stage at ‘Carmen’ opera

ANKARA - Anadolu Agency

Egyptian artist Gala el-Hadidi is playing the role of ‘Carmen’ in Ankara.

Egyptian artist Gala el-Hadidi has taken the leading role in the Ankara State Opera and Ballet’s (ADOB) presentation of the blockbuster opera “Carmen.”

El-Hadidi, who has a Turkish grandmother, said she came to Turkey for the first time at the age of 15 for a contest and has also scouted in the country.

The artist joined the Cairo Opera Company at the age of 18, before earning a scholarship to the International Bach Academy in Stuttgart in 2005.

El-Hadidi said Turks were widely known around the world in the field of contemporary arts. “Turkey is always a notable country in the art community. Turks are passionate, which is important for art.”

Speaking of her native Egypt, the actress said Egypt was important to the Arab world in terms of films and TV dramas. “The regime does not put pressure on the arts, but I feel the international pressure because of the latest incidents in my country. This is why I need to be better,” she said.

 “Carmen” made it premiere last night and will be on the ADOB stage for the new season.