Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theatre

The History of the Marionette Theatre

The theater was founded in 1981 by the Georgian director Rezo Gabriadze, and there is an inscription in gold on the building: “Extra Cepam Nihil Cogito Nos Lacrimare” (“Let our tears come only when cutting onions”).

The life of the theater begins with a story of eternal love - the first marionette show, called “Afred and Violetta”, can still be seen to this day. It is an artistic reimagining of Alexandre Dumas’ “La Dame aux Camelias” by Gabriadze.

What Will You See at Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theatre?

There are four other shows in the theater’s repertoire, the set decoration and marionettes for which were all made by Gabriadze himself. 

One more show is presented across from the theater, where the famous clock tower stands. Once every hour a golden-winged angel comes out of the tower’s painted door and rings the bell with a small hammer. At 12:00 noon and 7:00 pm the tower’s 15-minute “Circle of Life” doll show starts.

Next to the theater you will find the Ar Daidardo (Don’t Worry) café, which will serve Georgian food and wine.

Information You Should Know about the Marionette Theatre

There are 80 seats in total in the Marionette Theatre, which can be found at 13 Shavteli Street.

As RezoGabriadze considered the number 13 unlucky, he replaced the street sign with 12+1. It was one of the maestro's cute oddities.