Crisis at the State Theatres: Tamer Karadağlı and his deputy's US trip sparks controversy

The content and purpose of the 14-day visit to the US by State Theatres General Manager Tamer Karadağlı and his deputy Sükun Işıtan have become a subject of debate.

The official justification for the trip was announced as "cultural cooperation contacts." However, different allegations regarding the visit have been brought to the agenda.

Allegation that they 'scouted for a stage in the US' for Işıtan's play

According to the report by Nefes, it was claimed that the US program had a different purpose beyond the official statements.

The report alleged that the actual reason for the visit was to scout for a stage in the US for Sükun Işıtan's play titled "Medea Material."

Details regarding the travel expenses were also at the center of the discussions.

According to the allegation, all expenses for the 14-day US visit were covered by the State Theatres budget. It was stated that the flights were taken with VIP tickets, and that accommodation expenses would be paid after returning to Turkey.

Furthermore, it was claimed that a daily allowance of 199 dollars would be provided for the first 10 days of the visit, and an increased rate of 299 dollars for the subsequent days.

He had said "The Tulip Era is over"

Tamer Karadağlı had previously come to the agenda with his statement "The Tulip Era is over," allegations of mobbing within the institution, the term "white tin" used against him, and his taking the lead role in the "Dracula" play.

Before Karadağlı took office in 2022, the institution's travel expenses were 14.6 million TL, while after Karadağlı took office, they rose to 127.8 million TL in 2024.

News Source: 12punto