On March 27, World Theatre Day, the Theatre Cooperative gathered with its partners, calling for measures to prevent private theatres from being crushed under economic burdens and to ensure the protection of artistic freedoms.
Theatre Cooperative: No Tax, But Support
As part of March 27, World Theatre Day, the Theatre Cooperative gathered with its partners to discuss the economic, legal, and artistic challenges faced by private theatres. During the meeting, concrete demands and solutions for the sector’s sustainability were presented.
Founded in 2018 by 13 private theatres and now representing nearly 80 private theatres, the Theatre Cooperativeonce again highlighted its rights-based efforts to strengthen private theatres economically, socially, and legally.
In his opening speech, Theatre Cooperative Chairman Mert Fırat stated:
“The future of artists and theatres can only be secured not just through economic support, but also through the fair implementation of the law. The liberation of art is only possible with freedom of expression and social justice. Where art is not free, society cannot breathe.”
Fırat emphasized that private theatres should not be seen merely as commercial enterprises but as institutions that preserve cultural heritage and collective memory for public benefit. He also pointed out that tax burdens and commercial restrictions threaten artistic production.
Steps for the Sustainability of Private Theatres
During the meeting, the necessary steps for ensuring the sustainability of private theatres were outlined. The Theatre Cooperative emphasized the need for SGK (social security) and VAT incentives, discounts on essential expensessuch as electricity, water, and natural gas, making KOSGEB (Small and Medium Enterprises Development Organization) support applicable to theatres, and developing donation and sponsorship systems, similar to international models.
“Artistic Production Thrives in a Free Environment”
The Theatre Cooperative highlighted that theatres should not be viewed as mere parts of the entertainment industry, stating:
“Artistic production cannot flourish under pressure; it requires a free environment. Theatre, with its unifying power, offers society the opportunity to think together through solidarity and empathy. The social and economic pressures on theatres do not only harm artists but also affect society as a whole.”
About the Theatre Cooperative
The Theatre Cooperative is a social cooperative that aims to enrich the artistic production of private theatres in Turkey while strengthening them economically, socially, and legally to ensure their sustainability. Established in May 2018 with the initiative of 13 private theatres, the cooperative expanded with 19 additional members and was officially founded in Istanbul on June 26, 2019. Today, it represents 75 private theatres as a strong and influential organization.
The cooperative’s primary objectives include:
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Developing projects and collaborations that provide social and economic benefits to its members,
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Raising awareness about the working conditions of private theatres,
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Advocating for regulatory improvements,
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Enhancing the national and international recognition of Turkish theatre,
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Promoting a culture of solidarity among private theatres.
By serving as a crucial platform for the empowerment and sustainability of private theatres in Turkey, the Theatre Cooperative continues to contribute to the development of theatre arts.
