Turkish Shadow Theatre Master Brings 700-Year-Old Tradition to Baltimore

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One of the world's oldest living theatrical traditions, the 700-year-old Turkish Karagöz shadow theatre, will arrive at Baltimore Theatre Project in February as award-winning artist Ayhan Hulagu presents two solo performances. Recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Karagöz blends satire, music, folklore, and social commentary through illuminated shadow puppetry.

Why it matters

Karagöz shadow theatre is a centuries-old form of performance art that has survived for over 700 years, making it one of the oldest living theatrical traditions in the world. Hulagu's productions offer Baltimore audiences a rare chance to witness this unique cultural heritage firsthand, as presented by a leading contemporary master of the craft.

The details

Hulagu, a New York-based actor and writer, is widely regarded as one of the leading representatives of traditional Turkish theatre. He founded the U.S. Karagoz Theatre Company and has toured his performances across nearly 40 states. At Baltimore Theatre Project, Hulagu will present two distinct solo productions performed entirely in English, with all characters voiced and embodied by the artist. Every puppet is handcrafted by Hulagu using camel or water buffalo hide, painted with natural dyes, and animated behind an illuminated screen, in keeping with classical Karagöz methods dating back to the Ottoman era.

• The engagement begins on February 26 and 27 with the production 'The Other Side of Hollywood'.
• The program continues on February 28 with afternoon and evening performances of 'The Forest of the Witch'.

What’s next

Hulagu's productions at Baltimore Theatre Project are the first time the 700-year legacy of traditional Turkish Karagöz shadow theatre has been brought to Baltimore.