The story of Turkish soldier Hasan, who kept vigil at Al-Aqsa Mosque for 55 years after the Ottoman Empire’s withdrawal from Palestine, is being brought to life in the play Ask Derinlerde Onbasi (Love in the Depths).

Directed by Yasar Elmas and produced by OyunBozan Atolye, the play captures Hasan’s unwavering dedication to his post, which lasted until his death, Türkiye Today reported.

Elmas explained the profound emotional and historical layers of the story.

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“It’s a powerful narrative that explores the internal world of a man who committed his life to safeguarding a sacred place,” Elmas told Anadolu Agency (AA).

The idea for the play originated from a journalist’s column that recounted Hasan’s life, inspiring Elmas to portray this unsung hero on stage.

The play is built around two central themes. First, it delves into Hasan’s inner experiences over his decades-long vigil, including dreams where sultans and commanders encourage him to remain at his post.

His loyalty is so deep that, when asked by a journalist in 1972 why he never left, Hasan replies simply, “My commander did not tell me to return. This place is entrusted to me.”

Second, the play addresses the broader historical context of the oppression and conflicts in Palestine, providing a backdrop to Hasan’s individual story.

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Music plays an important role in the production. Elmas recounted his collaboration with Tunisian singer-songwriter Emel Mathlouthi, whose music supports the emotional weight of the story.

Although Ask Derinlerde Onbasi is not a musical, Elmas emphasized that the play uses animation, composed text, and original musical compositions, marking a first in theater history.

Actor Abdurrahman Meralli, who plays both a journalist and an officer, underscored the importance of the journalist’s role in uncovering Hasan’s story.

He remarked on the significance of bringing this tale to life, noting the emotional toll on the officer who entrusts the flag of Al-Aqsa to Hasan before reluctantly departing for Istanbul.

“Hasan’s patience and love will resonate with many people,” Meralli said.

Metin Cingilic, who portrays the journalist, reflected on the character’s curiosity that ultimately revealed Hasan’s long vigil. His character’s persistence is key to unraveling the soldier’s story, which had remained hidden for decades.

The play also touches on the role of Nazif Ustegmen (First Lieutenant), played by Cingilic, who inspires Hasan to volunteer to guard Jerusalem.

Hasan’s loyalty is so complete that he asks to be buried at the mosque, where a small mosque now bears his name, though it is in ruins by the end of the play.

Set to premiere in October, Ask Derinlerde Onbasi brings together a cast of 10, including actors Abdurrahman Meralli, Metin Cingilic, Yasar Elmas, and Coskun Ugur.

The production promises to be a moving tribute to Hasan’s lifelong devotion to Al-Aqsa and the enduring significance of Jerusalem.