We came together for a pleasant conversation after the interview with Umut Çınar, who plays the young character Aslan in “Büyük Zarifi Apartmanı”, which brings together the stories of Greeks lived in Istanbul from past to present.
BĂĽyĂĽk Zarifi Apartment is a building located on the corner of lively streets of BeyoÄźlu for 150 years. Today, those sitting in the tea shop next to it witness history peacefully among the flood of people involved in nightlife. It is not known how many of those who have settled on Istiklal Street are aware of it, but this apartment building is a historical building that has hosted countless guests since the reign of Abdulaziz. The apartment building built by the Zarifi family, one of the wealthy families of that times, continues to live today with the theater play it gave its name to.
Directed by İlyas Özçakır, who previously won an award for his role in the play “Collector”, “Büyük Zarifi Apartmanı” brings together the stories of Istanbul Greeks from past to present. While doing this, he takes advantage of every bit of the second floor of the apartment. It is sure to be a very touching work, with rembetiko songs from Çağdaş Ekin Şişman’s beautiful voice, Gafur Uzuner’s acting that we miss, comedian Pınar Fidan’s unique style, and Greek artist Rasmi Tsopela’s contribution that strengthens the bridge between cultures. “Büyük Zarifi Apartamanı” should be seen in this season without thinking about where you were born or your roots…
It is such a play that is completely identified with the place is “Büyük Zarifi Apartmanı”. It probably wouldn’t have the same impact if it were performed on a theater stage. What do you think about the contribution of the building to the play?
Yes, I think Zarifi Apartmanı is not only our game venue, but it is one of the players in our game. That’s why we have a very strong playmate on stage, and this puts us at ease. As for the audience, I can say that the audience is probably more likely to connect with the play thanks to Zarifi Apartmanı. It is very enjoyable to play with Zarifi Apartmanı in Zarifi Apartmanı.
This play differs from many others with its spatial experience, for example, there is no tour opportunity, and the number of spectators is limited because the space is narrow… Does such a “limitation” restrict you as an actor or does it create other opportunities?
This limitation is educational and entertaining for me. It was something I had never experienced before, but of course, every place has its own textures and nourishes you.
It’s a play where you stand very close to the audience. You notice the interaction very clearly. So far, what kind of reaction do you get?
