Dilek's musical about the Turkish Republic and script for an earthquake relief fundraiser move audiences.
Mert Dilek’s work in theatre embraces many facets such as playwriting, dramaturgy, translation, criticism, and scholarship. Currently a PhD candidate at the University of Cambridge, Dilek has received acclaim for his involvement with an earthquake relief event at Royal Albert Hall on April 15, as well as the musical he co-wrote, 1923, which made its debut at Zorlu Performance Center on April 23.
Dilek explains that the musical was in the works since early 2022 and necessitated an arduous preparation: “The producers were keen on doing something ambitious to commemorate the centenary of the Turkish Republic. After actor Yekta Kopan came up with the narrative framework, director Mehmet Ergen and I joined the team as co-writers and crafted the script over a period of six months. We conducted historical research and development workshops with the creative team, including designers from the UK.” Dilek’s writing was inspired by his research into the concrete details of history, as well as the technical resources at their disposal: “I also re-read my history notebook from RC while reacquainting myself with all the historical details.” With a cast of over 100, 1923 is the largest piece of musical theatre ever produced in Turkey.
Dilek also contributed as a scriptwriter to the Turkey-Syria fundraiser at the Royal Albert Hall on April 15, organized by UK-based Turkish arts professionals, War Child and the Turkey Mozaik Foundation: “I jumped at this opportunity, as I was eager to support this crucial cause in any way I could. While writing the script for our hosts and performers, I made a point of giving the London audience a sense of the challenges experienced by many in the wake of the catastrophic earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. The literary texts we curated for recital during the event also structured and modulated my writing.”
Published May 2023
