Tradational Mardin's Entertainment: Leyli Night's

Abstract

Transmission of tradition provides bondage between generations in multi cultural societies by means of the transmission of cultural codes between generations. Cultural heritage of Mardin which bonds people from different lingual and religious backgrounds can be traced back in entertainment practices. These practices convey past to present with its traditional character. The traditional entertainment ritual in Mardin is called "Leyli Nights". They provide the basic elements of Mardin's culture and entertainment practices. Leyli Nights are also significant for being a part of transition rituals such as bridal and circumcision ceremonies. Nevertheless as these ceremonies take place in different locations due to the change in life styles; Leyli nights' character also changed especially in places where it became a tourist attraction. This shift in its context and authenticity will be discussed. Our study is a folkloric one which takes music in Leyli Nights as means of communication. In addition, the multi lingual and multi religious structure of the region is reflected in these entertainments. Rituals and practices of Leyli Night entertainments, (both traditional and touristic) which is an important phenomenon in Mardin's entertainment culture, and introduction of collective singing practices are subject of this study.