Istanbul - Turkey with Your Family: From Bustling Bazaars to Historic Sites - page 62

Istanbul Toy Museum
Workshops

proposals on issues that concern
children. On 23rd April itself,
children participate in the Grand
National Assembly sessions.
23 April. b [phone].

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VALUE

ALL AGES

A series of workshops is held
weekly at the Toy Museum (see
p. 79), covering subjects such as
archaeology, which is explained
through the use of sand boxes and
drawings, and therefore makes it
easier for children to learn. Each
workshop is tailored to an age
group. A more basic, easy-to-
understand workshop is provided
for young children up to the age
of 6, while the more advanced les-
sons are aimed at those up to 11
years of age. Both residents of the
city and visitors are welcomed.
Ömerpa@a Avenue Dr. Zeki Zeren
Street No:17, Goztepe, Istanbul
b [phone]; www.istanbul
oyuncakmusesi.com

International Film Festival
and the International Istanbul
Theatre Festival
Two of the city's major events of
the year, the Film Festival and the
Theatre Festival are held at selec-
tive venues throughout the city,
including the large and modern
Atatürk Cultural Centre near
Taksim Square. They take place
every April and May respectively.
Although popular with adults and
visitors, they generally include
programmes of films and events
especially for children. Try to
arrange your trip to coincide with
the festivals; it will be worthwhile.
April and May. b [phone].

ALL AGES

Spirit of Anatolia
A show by the Istanbul Dance
Ensemble and held at the Turkish
Cultural Dance Theatre around
three times a week (variable
depending on the season), this
spectacular presentation offers
great music, dance and colourful
costumes. Traditional dances,
such as the Whirling Dervishes
from Konya, Halay from the
south east region of Turkey, the
Artvin Dance from the North-
east, the Thrace Dance from
Kirklareli and the Horon from
the Black Sea region are just some
of the dances performed for visi-
tors of all ages. The theatre is just
a few minutes' walk from the
Grand Bazaar.
All year. Turkish Cultural Dance
Theatre, Divan Yolu Cad. b +90 212
517 46 98.

ALL AGES

International Istanbul Music
and Dance Festival
Every June, the city comes alive
to the sound of music and dance.
Venues, including a number of
museums, hotels and community
centres, host events from interna-
tional artists. The tourist infor-
mation offices (see p. 57) always
have publicity materials detailing
where and when events are to be
held. The most convenient office
is likely to be at the Sultanahmet.
It's in Divan Yolu Caddesi, a few
minutes walk away from the
Hippodrome.
June. Venues throughout the city.

ALL AGES

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