"Pirouette & Release": Construction Worker by Day, Teaches Ballet at Night, in Ayvacık

türkçe links to original Turkish article

(Haberler.com website, 7 March 2026)

                      Heavy lifting and light dancing.

Berkay Dal, who lives in Ayvacık district of Çanakkale, works as a 

construction machine operator during the day and teaches ballet in the 

evenings. He maintains his connection to art by pursuing both 

professions simultaneously, thanks to his conservatory education. 

Dal, who graduated from the Turkish Folk Dance Department of 

Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University State Conservatory in 2023 

and who also holds a ballet instructor certificate, moved to Ayvacık 

district of Çanakkale from Balıkesir about 3 years ago.

He entered the construction sector through his friend Ali Çakır, who 

works in excavation, and gradually learned to operate construction 

machinery. While actively working as a construction machine operator 

on construction sites, Dal started giving ballet lessons at a private art 

center in the district in the evenings to stay connected to art. Giving

ballet lessons to 15 students two days a week, Dal has also remained 

true to his artistic field.

"I'm trying to improve myself in the fields of ballet, performing arts, 

lighting, and makeup."  Dal stated that his juggling two different 

professions is met with surprise by those around hım, but the positive

feedback he receives motivates him.