Gilgamesh (Kodallı opera)

Gilgamesh (Kodallı opera) is an opera in three acts composed by Nevit Kodallı. The libretto, based on the Epic of Gilgamesh, was written by Sabahattin Eyüboğlu. It is considered one of the most significant Turkish operas.

The opera tells the story of the legendary Sumerian king Gilgamesh, his friendship with Enkidu, their adventures, and Gilgamesh's subsequent quest for immortality after Enkidu's death. The themes explored include mortality, friendship, power, and the human condition.

Kodallı's score blends Western operatic traditions with elements of Turkish folk music, creating a distinctive and evocative sound world. The opera features large-scale choral passages, dramatic orchestral writing, and demanding vocal roles.

Gilgamesh premiered in Ankara in 1964. It has been revived several times and remains a prominent work in the Turkish operatic repertoire.