The building was originally intended to serve as a multi-purpose cultural complex, including a theater, ballroom, and opera house, though it functioned as a cinema for 80 years.
Architect Kehramanyan incorporated French Art Deco and Ottoman architectural elements into the facade and interior design.
Süreyya İlmen, the building's founder, was a Pasha who sought to elevate the cultural profile of Kadıköy by introducing high art to the district.
The 2007 restoration included the reconstruction of the ceiling frescoes and the restoration of the gilded plasterwork to reflect the original 1920s aesthetic.
The building survived several decades of neglect and repurposing before the municipal government intervened for its permanent conversion to a performance space.
The Süreyya Opera House is a historic building in the Kadıköy district, commissioned by Süreyya İlmen and designed by architect Kehramanyan in an Art Deco style. Opened in 1927, it was the first opera house on the Anatolian side of Istanbul, though it functioned primarily as a movie theater for much of the 20th century. Following extensive restoration in 2007, it was reopened as a dedicated venue for opera and ballet performances. The interior features a grand foyer inspired by the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris. The auditorium maintains a capacity of approximately 500 spectators. It currently serves as the home venue for the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet. The venue is owned and maintained by the Kadıköy Municipality.
The central grand staircase and the ornate entrance foyer provide the most detailed architectural shots.
Book tickets well in advance through the official state opera platform as performances frequently sell out.
Arrive early to appreciate the detailed ceiling frescoes and the Art Deco architecture of the foyer before the performance begins.
Check the Kadıköy Municipality website for non-opera events, as the venue occasionally hosts chamber music and community concerts.
Do not mistake the exterior commercial shops for the main entrance; the opera entrance is clearly marked along the main street.
Closed for rehearsals and technical maintenance during the summer recess; schedule follows the official Istanbul State Opera and Ballet season.
Smart casual attire is standard for evening performances; avoid wearing shorts or beachwear.
