"Time of the Gypsies," a film about a Roma man with magical powers, will be presented as a musical in Turkey for the first time on Dec. 26-27 under the direction of Vural Bingöl. In the musical, which is scheduled for monthly performances at Trump Show Center after its debut, Seda Kement, who plays the role of hardworking journalist "Meryema" in the TV series "Alija" on Turkish State broadcaster TRT, will grace the stage as "Ruza."

Written and directed by Yugoslav director Emir Kusturica in 1988, "Time of the Gypsies" is a masterpiece according to film critiques. The film tells the story of Roma people living vivaciously in Yugoslavia in the 1980s but actually hiding their private sorrow, love and pain. Kement, who is sure to wow audiences with her portrayal of "Ruza," said: "I studied music, and my biggest dream was to take part in a musical. I have been waiting for one I felt comfortable with. ‘Time of the Gypsies' is one of my favorite films. While watching it, I wished I could step through the screen and be a part of it. My wish has come true. I am now part of the musical's cast. I'm really happy about being included in such a perfect production."

Musical to tour various citiesStarring talented dancers, musicians and performers, "Time of the Gypsies Musical" features Banu Kırbağ, Cenk Yüksel, Andre Primavera, Canan Güncer, Ali Kemal Aydın, Seda Kement, Gamze Metin, Mehmet Kır, Nilüfer Ömürlü, Ayca Ergün, Erhan Yaman, Sibel Kuşi Yalkı, Esra Uzun, Murat Yaşar Özdemir, Emre Kurtul, Arzu Kurnaz and Vural Bingöl. The musical, with music director Canan Güner, is scheduled to tour Turkey, visiting various cities countrywide.