While the air in Istanbul has taken on a distinctly detective-like atmosphere, we’re turning our route toward Kadıköy’s unique theatrical energy. Agatha Christie’s cult novel Murder on the Orient Express, written in 1933 at the Pera Palace, translated into dozens of languages, and immortalised in cinema history, is now being brought to the stage in a masterful production by Akla Kara Theatre.
When the clock strikes 20:30, that legendary train departing from Istanbul will settle onto the rails of the stage. If you want to occupy your mind with a sharp puzzle this evening, it’s the perfect time to put your little grey cells to work.
From Pera Palace to the Rails: A Detective is Born
The world’s most meticulous detective, Hercule Poirot, comes to life through the performance of master actor Atilla Şendil. The story is well known, but the excitement is always fresh: a brutal murder takes place aboard a train stranded in the snow on a mountainside. The killer—or killers—is among them, everyone has an alibi, and the race against time begins for Poirot.
“The compartment where the murder was committed is overflowing with more clues than necessary. Poirot is experiencing the most troubling moments of his life.”
With a strong cast including Savaş Özdural, Özdemir Çiftçioğlu, Hakan Akın, and Oya İnci, the production keeps the audience trapped inside that claustrophobic and mysterious carriage for 120 minutes.
Journey Log: Where and When?
Here’s a summary of the train’s stops:
- Istanbul Anatolia (Kadıköy): The journey begins today at Akla Kara Theatre. Performances will take place on 14–15 March and later on 26–27–28 March in Kadıköy. Detective candidates, your seats are waiting.
- Istanbul Europe: The train stops at Sefaköy Culture and Arts Centre on Saturday, 18 April.
- Towards the Season Finale: On 28 April, the train will pull into the main hall of Caddebostan Culture Centre (CKM).
Agatha Christie’s immortal work is not merely a story about finding a killer; it is a journey into the depths of justice, revenge, and human nature. Watching Atilla Şendil’s interpretation of Poirot is a pleasure in itself.
Venue: Akla Kara Theatre, Kadıköy (and other venues)
Dates: 14–15 March, 26–28 March, 18 April, 28 April 2026
If you’re ready to exercise your little grey cells, hop aboard this legendary train — the journey promises to be unforgettable.
