İzmir hosts European youth drama meetings and launches new arts programs

The 18th European Drama Youth Meetings (EDERED 2026) concluded in İzmir, Turkey, following a 10-day program focused on creative drama and intercultural interaction. Organized by the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality and the Contemporary Drama Association, the event brought together young people from various countries to engage in workshops, cultural excursions, and social activities.

The program culminated in a final performance at the Ahmed Adnan Saygun Art Center. Under the theme ‘World Library: The Rest is Yet to Be Written,’ participants transformed personal narratives and cultural experiences into a collective story through creative drama. The event was attended by local officials, including İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Deputy Secretary General Prof. Dr. Pınar Okyay.

In a separate initiative, the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality has announced new arts education programs for local residents. These include master classes in ‘Rhythms of the World,’ polyphonic women's choirs, children's choirs, and piano training. Applications for these various music and stage studies are being accepted through the municipality's official channels.