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Baku Marionette Theater: A World of Enchantment

Experience the magic of Azerbaijani culture at the Baku Marionette Theater, where traditional stories come to life through enchanting puppetry.

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The Baku Marionette Theater, nestled in Baku's Old City (Icherisheher), offers a captivating glimpse into Azerbaijani culture through intricate marionette performances. Housed in a meticulously restored neoclassical building dating back to the 1880s, the theater provides a magical experience for audiences of all ages.

A brief summary to The Baku Marionette Theater

Local tips

  • Check the theater's schedule in advance, as performances vary and tickets can sell out quickly.
  • Arrive early to explore the charming Old City and enjoy a meal at one of the traditional restaurants nearby.
  • The theater is located within walking distance of many other attractions in Icherisheher, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Baku Marionette Theater is located in the heart of Icherisheher (Old City), easily accessible on foot from many of Baku's central landmarks. From the Maiden Tower, walk north along Kichik Qala Street. The theater will be on your left, a short distance from the Shirvanshahs Palace. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    The closest metro station to the Baku Marionette Theater is Icherisheher station on the Red Line. From the station, exit towards the Old City and walk along Kichik Qala Street. The theater will be on your left, a short walk from the metro exit. A single metro fare is 0.50 AZN and requires a BakiKart, which costs 2 AZN.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Baku and offer a convenient way to reach the Baku Marionette Theater. From the city center, a short taxi ride to the theater should cost approximately 3-7 AZN, depending on traffic and the taxi service used. Consider using a ride-hailing app like Uber or Bolt, or hail one of the local taxis.

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Discover more about The Baku Marionette Theater

The Baku Marionette Theater, a hidden gem within the UNESCO-listed Icherisheher (Old City) of Baku, offers a captivating glimpse into Azerbaijani culture and artistry. Founded in 1988 by director and artist Tarlan Gorchu, the theater has become a beloved cultural institution, enchanting audiences with its intricate marionette performances. Housed in a meticulously restored neoclassical building dating back to the 1880s, the theater itself is a testament to Baku's rich architectural heritage. Originally owned by the Salimkhanovs, a prominent merchant family, the building has undergone several transformations throughout its history. It even served as a movie theater named "Phenomenon" in the early 20th century. After enduring a devastating fire in the 1960s, the building was lovingly restored and, in 2016, became the permanent home of the Baku Marionette Theater. The theater's intimate setting, with a capacity of around 49 seats, creates a magical atmosphere where audiences can fully immerse themselves in the world of puppetry. The performances showcase traditional Azerbaijani stories, brought to life by meticulously crafted marionettes, vibrant costumes, and enchanting music. The puppets themselves range in size, some standing as tall as twice the size of a human, adding to the spectacle and wonder of the shows. The Baku Marionette Theater's repertoire includes adaptations of classic Azerbaijani works, most notably the operas of Uzeyir Hajibeyli, the founder of Azerbaijani classical music. Two of his most famous works, "Arshin Mal Alan" and "Leyli & Majnun," have been adapted into captivating marionette shows that have garnered international acclaim. "Arshin Mal Alan," a musical comedy about a young man who disguises himself as a cloth peddler to find a wife, is a lighthearted and humorous tale that has delighted audiences for generations.

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