Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi, Mtskheta Travel Guide

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Experience world-class opera and ballet in Tbilisi's historic neo-Moorish theater, a cultural gem since 1851.

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Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi

The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater, located on Rustaveli Avenue, is a historic landmark and one of Eastern Europe's oldest opera houses. Founded in 1851, the theater has been a center of Georgian culture, showcasing opera and ballet performances in a stunning neo-Moorish building.

A brief summary to Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi

25 Shota Rustaveli Ave, Tbilisi, Old Tbilisi, 0108, GE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi.

Check the theater's website for the performance schedule and to purchase tickets in advance.
Consider dressing in formal attire to enhance your experience at the opera or ballet.
Arrive early to admire the theater's architecture and soak in the ambiance before the show.
Explore the small gardens on either side of the Opera House, one of which serves as the burial place of prominent Georgian composers and opera singers.

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Getting There

Walking

The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater is located on Rustaveli Avenue, a central thoroughfare in Tbilisi, making it easily accessible on foot from many points in the city center. From Freedom Square, walk north along Rustaveli Avenue for about 10-15 minutes. The theater will be on your left. There are numerous landmarks and shops along the way.
Public Transport

The Opera and Ballet Theater is easily accessible by public transport. The closest metro station is Freedom Square on the Red Line. From there, it's a 10-15 minute walk north on Rustaveli Avenue. Numerous buses also stop near the theater. Check the Tbilisi Transport Company website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single bus or metro fare is 1 GEL. You can pay using a MetroMoney card, a Georgian bank card, or contactless payment methods.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Tbilisi and are a convenient way to reach the Opera and Ballet Theater. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app such as Bolt or Yandex Taxi. A short taxi ride within the city center should cost no more than 10 GEL. Be sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as not all taxis use meters.

Discover more about Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi

The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater, officially named the Zacharia Paliashvili Tbilisi Opera and Ballet State Theater, stands as a testament to Georgia's rich cultural heritage. Established in 1851, it is one of the oldest opera houses in Eastern Europe and a prominent landmark on Tbilisi's central Rustaveli Avenue.The theater's history is intertwined with Georgia's political past, opening shortly after the country's annexation by the Russian Empire. Originally known as the Tiflis Imperial Theater, it was conceived as a means of cultural assimilation. The first opera house was built by Italian architect Giovanni Scudieri, with lavish interiors and artwork by Russian painter Grigory Gagarin. Alexandre Dumas, a famous French writer, attended the opening ceremony and praised the hall's beauty.In 1874, a fire destroyed the original building. The current neo-Moorish structure, designed by Viktor Schröter, opened in 1896. The architecture blends Moorish and European styles, featuring a colorful facade, intricate stucco work, and a spacious auditorium. The interior was damaged by another fire in 1973 but was restored to its original design.Today, the theater continues to host a diverse repertoire of operas and ballets, including both classic and contemporary works. It is also home to the State Ballet of Georgia. The theater is named after Zacharia Paliashvili, a Georgian national composer, and his opera "Abesalom da Eteri" traditionally opens each season.