Cultural and artistic activities in Samsun between two coups (1960-1980)

This study examines the cultural and artistic activities in Samsun between 1960-1980. In the study, the effects of the social and political structure of the period on artistic activities in Samsun are discussed, and developments in various art branches such as theater, music, cultural change, opera and ballet are evaluated. The 1960s was a period in which cultural and artistic developments gained momentum in Samsun as in Türkiye in general. In this process, theater activities in Samsun gained significant momentum and professional and amateur theater groups were established in the city. In the field of music, Samsun had a rich diversity in terms of both traditional Turkish music and Western music. Municipalities have made music a part of their artistic activities. In the 1970s, the number of music festivals and public concerts increased. Between 1960 and 1980, Samsun experienced a vibrant period in cultural and artistic terms. There were important developments in areas such as theater, music, cultural activities, and visual arts; these activities contributed significantly to the shaping of Samsun's cultural identity. The social and political structure of the period sometimes encouraged and sometimes limited artistic production. However, despite all the difficulties, Samsun continued to be one of the cultural centers of the Black Sea Region between 1960-1980. Established in 2008, the State Opera and Ballet in Samsun contributed greatly to the cultural and artistic development of the region.