VIRTUAL London Heritages Conference

Abstract

The Kenter Theatre, located in Istanbul and one of Turkey’s leading private theatres, is more than just an architectural structure; it is a space where collective memory is produced. Established in 1965 by Yıldız and Müşfik Kenter, two of the most iconic figures in contemporary Turkish theatre, the Kenter Theatre also functioned as a de facto academy. Yıldız Kenter’s position as a faculty member at Istanbul University Conservatory—one of the country’s leading institutions for theatre education—enabled the theatre to host the debut professional stage experiences of numerous distinguished actors of Turkey. After the passing of its founders, the theatre faced challenges, including privatization and gentrification. However, with the efforts of former theatre students, the building was purchased by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality and efforts were started to preserve the structure as a cultural asset. Kenter Theater witnessed and pioneered the artistic and cultural development of Turkey throughout its history from its opening until its temporary closure. It has become a significant place for documenting developments in the field of theatre and a cornerstone of cultural memory and heritage. This study, which examines the tangible, intangible and cultural heritage values of the Kenter Theater from a post-structuralist framework, investigates that the theatre that is not only a physical space but beyond that, has gained new meanings in addition to its existing values through historical, cultural and social transformations. It also provides a theoretical framework for analyzing the layered narratives and dynamic identity of theatre through Jacques Derrida’s concept of deconstruction. With this approach, the Kenter Theater is positioned not merely as an important theatrical structure of fixed value, but as a dynamic cultural artefact that continuously acquires new meanings.