Orhan Akkurt*
In a remarkable event, the International Language and Culture Festival (IFLC) commenced its North American tour in Washington, DC, with the enchanting musical, “The Most Beautiful Story.” The performance, held at the Northern Virginia Community College Concert Hall, drew a significant and enthusiastic audience.
Comprising seven distinct acts, “The Most Beautiful Story” showcased a captivating narrative set against a rich historical backdrop. It artfully blended modern dance interpretations with specially composed songs and written poems, creating a visually and aurally striking production.
Drawing inspiration from classical works both in the East and West, the story artfully juxtaposed age-old tales with contemporary events. The story’s outset featured the joyous days of a large family, gradually unfolding the narrative of sibling estrangement leading to deep-seated enmity. The musical skillfully depicted how jealousy and resentment can transform an individual into a heartless being, culminating in a grand and evocative finale that succinctly summarized world history.
Students participating in the program paid heartfelt tributes to late artists like Özkan Uğur and Erkin Koray, in addition to performing songs by renowned musicians Cem Karaca and Barış Manço. The program also included a touching segment dedicated to a Turkish police officer, unjustly imprisoned and tragically sent to his death in a white chair in his prison cell. Yusuf Kerim, a symbol for children whose mothers faced unjust incarceration and a cancer patient who recently passed away, was also remembered by the young performers.
The program featured a repertoire of brand-new compositions created exclusively for the “The Most Beautiful Story” musical.
A SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM FETHULLAH GÜLEN FOR ‘THE MOST BEAUTIFUL STORY’
Fethullah Gülen Hocaefendi sent a special message in support of the International Language and Culture Festival (IFLC) and its presentation of “The Most Beautiful Story” in Washington, DC. In his message, Hocaefendi noted, “In these challenging times that humanity collectively faces, the International Language and Culture Festival serves as a soothing balm for our yearning hearts, bringing young people from different countries together in the name of love.”
ENES KANTER EXTENDS HIS SUPPORT TO THE YOUTH
Prominent basketball player Enes Kanter Freedom, who attended the event, expressed his gratitude to the IFLC team for organizing the evening and remarked, “May Allah grant us the opportunity to hold these beautiful festivals once again in our homeland, turning our prayers into reality. May Fethullah Gülen Hocaefendi, the noble individual behind these remarkable endeavors, be blessed with a long and healthy life.”
THE TOUR IN FULL SWING
The musical will continue its tour, captivating audiences in Toronto on October 26 and in California on October 30. Tickets for the Los Angeles and Toronto shows can be secured through the provided contact information.
Orhan Akkurt is a journalist based in NY. This news article originally published in Turkish in TR724.com and translated into English by Politurco.
