President Kaya Stands Up for Hüseyin Kazaz Cultural Center Amid Controversy
Ortahisar Mayor Ahmet Kaya recently held a meeting with representatives of amateur theater groups in Trabzon at the Hüseyin Kazaz Cultural Center. The purpose of the meeting was to address the ongoing controversy surrounding the attempt to take back the center from Ortahisar Municipality. The meeting was attended by representatives from various theater groups such as Trabzon Theater Association, Trabzon Theater Union, People’s Theater, ES Stage, and Real Academy.
### Fight for the Heart of Culture and Art
The Hüseyin Kazaz Cultural Center serves as a vital hub for cultural and artistic activities in Trabzon, according to Mayor Kaya. He emphasized the importance of the center as a rare gem in Turkey’s cultural landscape, having been transformed from a prison into a cultural hub. The center is a valuable space contributing to the cultural and artistic life of the city, especially for the amateur theater groups that utilize its facilities. Mayor Kaya voiced his determination not to remain silent in the face of attempts to take away this essential cultural space without proper consultation.
### A Plea for Cultural Preservation
The fate of the Hüseyin Kazaz Cultural Center hangs in the balance as Mayor Kaya and theater practitioners advocate for its continued use for theatrical purposes. The Mayor highlighted the historical significance of the center as a symbol of Trabzon’s rich cultural heritage. Drawing parallels with the loss of the iconic Yavuz Selim Stadium, Mayor Kaya cautioned against repeating the same mistakes by neglecting the cultural importance of the center.
### Challenges and Solutions
Necati Zengin, the General Art Director of Trabzon Art Theater, raised concerns about the lack of adequate parking facilities for theatergoers attending performances at the center. This issue has led to a decline in audience numbers, impacting the sustainability of theater activities. Despite facing technical and physical challenges within the center, Zengin remains optimistic about resolving these issues internally to ensure the continuity of artistic endeavors.
### A Call for Unity and Support
In response to the theater community’s concerns, Mayor Kaya extended a heartfelt invitation to utilize not only the Multipurpose Hall but also his personal office for their creative pursuits. He emphasized the municipality’s commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural scene in Trabzon and encouraged artists to make use of all available spaces for their artistic endeavors.
As the debate over the fate of the Hüseyin Kazaz Cultural Center continues, the voices of artists and community members united in their dedication to preserving this cultural landmark grow louder. The center’s significance as a beacon of creativity and expression remains at the forefront of discussions, urging stakeholders to collaborate and find sustainable solutions for the benefit of Trabzon’s cultural heritage.
