The Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (İKSV) is the pioneer NGO in Istanbul which organizes cultural and artistic events by hosting well known artists from all around the world in the areas of film, theatre, classical and jazz concerts, as well as design exhibitions. The venue is conveniently located in Şişhane near to the metro station. Besides organizing festivals, biennials and cultural events in Turkey, IKSV is involved in conserving traditional arts and cultural heritage, encouraging and facilitating artistic production in diverse disciplines, and contributing to the development of cultural policies. Tickets can be purchased on biletix.com .
Süreayya Opera House is in Kadıköy and it is currently the home of the Istanbul Opera, Ballet and Symphony Orchestra. The season runs from September to June and in that period usually three to four operas are presented, as well as several ballet works and concerts. Tickets are sold at the box office on the premises or Biletix ticketing agents and are inexpensive.
There is an International Arts Festival each summer from mid-June until mid-July, when performers from around the world come to Istanbul. Other popular music and culture venues include Cemal Reşit Rey Hall in Nişantaşı, Cemil Topuzlu Açık Hava Tiyatrosu (open air amphitheater) in Nişantaşı, Rumeli Hisarı open air amphitheater (in summer), JC’s jazz club in Ortaköy, Nardis Jazz Club, and many more. Babylon is an excellent venue for rock and alternative music performances.
Other useful Links:
Biletix.com (online ticket purchasing and venue listings for concerts, arts, cinema, sports, and cultural events)
Akbank Art (cultural events at the cultural center sponsored by Akbank)
Instituto Cervantes Estambul