Comedian Bülent Ceylan to Perform and Commentate in Mozart Opera at Berlin State Opera

Comedian Bülent Ceylan will perform the speaking role of Bassa Selim and provide live commentary during a new production of Mozart's 'The Abduction from the Seraglio' at the Staatsoper Berlin, premiering on 27 June 2026. Directed by Andrea Moses, the production blends opera with stand-up comedy, featuring a newly written text co-created by Ceylan, Moses, and dramaturg Michael Höppner. The show aims to address cultural barriers, racism, and contemporary issues through Ceylan's unique perspective. The orchestra is conducted by Thomas Guggeis. Artistic director Elisabeth Sobotka suggested the casting. Ceylan, who once aspired to be an opera singer, hosts the performance while playing his role, blurring boundaries between character and self. Moses sees this as a groundbreaking format to attract new audiences to opera.