The Clash of Titans: An Unforgettable Theatre Experience Bringing the Giants of Classical Music to the Stage

“The Clash of Titans” is a captivating theatrical production that brings the half-century rivalry between two iconic figures of classical music, Leonard Bernstein and Herbert von Karajan, to the stage. Written by Peter Danish and translated into Turkish by Sevin Okyay, this play, featuring Okan Bayülgen and Celal Kadri Kınoğlu, is an ambitious collaboration between Kabare Dada and ONKContent, premiering on March 6, 2026, at Zorlu PSM in Türkiye. This guide explores the play’s main narrative, production team, historical context, and its place in the Turkish theatre and creative market, offering theatre enthusiasts a comprehensive overview. This work, intertwining themes of art, politics, and humanity, invites audiences to an iconic night in Vienna.

Main Narrative and Summary of the Play

The play focuses on the intense rivalry spanning over half a century between Leonard Bernstein (portrayed by Okan Bayülgen) and Herbert von Karajan (portrayed by Celal Kadri Kınoğlu). These two titans of 20th-century orchestral conducting are emblematic of a fierce clash shaped by art, politics, popular culture, and ideologies. The story is enriched with elements such as unresolved issues post-World War II, the Europe-America confrontation, and the clash between courage and discipline. Set in the bar of the Sacher Hotel in Vienna, this one-night encounter depicts the giants facing their past, each other, and themselves. Viewers witness inspiring conversations as these masters strive to understand each other over a final drink, accompanied by brief performances of historically significant classical music recordings.

Inspired by true events, the production reveals the human and vulnerable side behind great egos. With a duration of 85 minutes over two acts, the play is suitable for audiences aged 13 and up, inviting theatre-goers to explore not just the rivalry but the inner worlds of the artists themselves.

Production Team and Details

The creative team of the play comprises experienced names from the Turkish theatre scene:

• Writer: Peter Danish – an award-winning American writer, director, and composer.
• Translator: Sevin Okyay
• Director: Nihal Usanmaz – who also takes a role in the play.
• Cast: Okan Bayülgen (Leonard Bernstein / Artistic Director), Celal Kadri Kınoğlu (Herbert von Karajan), Nihal Usanmaz
• Costume & Set Design: İnci Kangal Özgür
• Music Arrangement: Murat Tükenmez – Kemal Alpan
• Hair & Makeup Design: Hülya Tüzün
• Poster Photography: Muhsin Akgün
• Poster Design: Berkcan Okar
• Production Coordinator / Assistant Director: Dilay Yıldız – Ferdi Taşkın
• Production: Kabare Dada & ONKContent (organization by YSM Yapım)

Premiere and Performances: The play will premiere on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 20:30, and subsequent performances will occur on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 20:30 at the Zorlu PSM Turkcell Platinum Stage. A talk with Peter Danish is scheduled to follow. The next session is set for Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 20:00 at the Atatürk Arts Center in Ankara. Ticket prices start at approximately 1500 TL and are available on platforms such as Biletix, Biletinial, and Bubilet.

In-depth Insights on Cast and Team

Okan Bayülgen (Leonard Bernstein)

Okan Bayülgen stands out as one of the most innovative figures in Turkish theatre and television. In this play, for which he also serves as the artistic director, he embodies the energetic and instinctual Bernstein. Known for pioneering the experimental theatre tradition with independent productions like Kabare Dada, Bayülgen is recognized for works such as “Makina Zamanı” and “Yumurta.” His connection with classical music can also be seen in international projects like “Olağan Şüpheliler.”

Celal Kadri Kınoğlu (Herbert von Karajan)

Celal Kadri Kınoğlu brings the disciplined and charismatic Karajan to life. Known for TV series such as “Kurtlar Vadisi” and “Hatırla Sevgili,” Kınoğlu has also won awards for theatre productions like “Bir Şey Yap Met” and “Kuklalar.” His interpretation of classical music harmonizes perfectly with the emphasis on European discipline in his role.

Nihal Usanmaz (Director and Actor)

Nihal Usanmaz plays a dual role as both director and performer. An experienced theatre professional, she has worked on classics like “İstanbul Efendisi” and adapts the play to resonate with Turkish audiences.

Production Companies:

• Kabare Dada: Founded by Okan Bayülgen, this company is a leader in alternative theatre, known for its experimental projects with long-term collaborations with venues like Zorlu PSM.
• ONKContent: Specializing in content production, this company actively engages in theatre and events, offering organizational support through collaboration with YSM Yapım.

Other team members include Murat Tükenmez, renowned as a composer of jazz and classical music, and İnci Kangal Özgür, whose designs reflect the historic hotel atmosphere with minimalistic decor.

Historical Figures: Leonard Bernstein and Herbert von Karajan

Leonard Bernstein (1918-1990) was an American conductor, composer, and pianist, celebrated as the legendary director of the New York Philharmonic and for his musical compositions like “West Side Story.” Known for his energetic style and educational efforts, he played a crucial role in introducing American music to Europe post-World War II.

Herbert von Karajan (1908-1989) was an Austrian conductor and long-time leader of the Berlin Philharmonic. Famous for his disciplined performance style, which created the “Karajan sound,” he produced over 800 recordings. Despite controversies surrounding his Nazi-era involvements, he significantly influenced the commercial aspect of classical music. Their rivalry reflects the ideological conflicts of the Cold War era: Bernstein’s liberalism vs. Karajan’s authoritarianism.

The Creative Marketplace and Theatre Ecosystem in Türkiye

In Türkiye, the theatre market has been expanding post-pandemic with digitalization. As of 2025, venues like Zorlu PSM attract over one million viewers annually. Independent productions such as Kabare Dada offer alternatives to state-funded theatres, while ONKContent leads in content monetization. The integration of classical music enriches Turkish theatre, as shown by events organized by the Istanbul Philharmonic Association. Companies like YSM Yapım, ticket platforms (Biletix, Biletinial), and performance spaces support the ecosystem. This play extends the market with Turkish adaptations of international texts, following trends similar to adaptations like “Şahlar” or “The Crown.” The sector anticipates 15% growth in 2026, particularly in theaters in Ankara and Istanbul.

Conclusion

The Clash of Titans offers art lovers an unmissable opportunity: beyond competition, it delivers a lesson in humanity, showcasing the global standards of Turkish theatre. Enriched with a premiere talk and subsequent performances, make sure to secure your tickets early through official platforms. Let the enthusiasts of classical music and theatre experience this epic confrontation live on stage!