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Rustaveli National Theatre: A Georgian Cultural Icon

Experience Georgian culture at Tbilisi's iconic Rustaveli National Theatre, a historic landmark showcasing diverse performing arts since 1887.

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The Rustaveli National Theatre, located on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi, is Georgia's largest and one of its oldest theaters. Housed in a Rococo-style building, it has been a cornerstone of Georgian performing arts since 1887, showcasing drama, ballet, and contemporary plays.

A brief summary to Rustaveli National Theatre

Local tips

  • Check the theater's schedule online in advance to secure tickets, as popular performances can sell out quickly.
  • Arrive early to admire the theater's stunning architecture and opulent interior.
  • Consider attending a guided tour to learn more about the theater's history and its role in Georgian culture.
  • Explore the nearby cafes and restaurants on Rustaveli Avenue for a complete evening experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Freedom Square, walk north along Shota Rustaveli Avenue. The theater is located at 17 Shota Rustaveli Ave, approximately a 10-minute walk on the right side.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Tbilisi Metro to Rustaveli Station on the Akhmeteli-Varketili line (red line). Exit the station and walk straight along Shota Rustaveli Avenue for about 5 minutes. The theater is located at number 17. A single metro or bus fare is 1 GEL.

  • Taxi

    Hail a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Bolt or TaxiOnn. Provide the driver with the address: 17 Shota Rustaveli Ave. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 5 and 10 GEL, depending on the distance and traffic.

Unlock the Best of Rustaveli National Theatre

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Discover more about Rustaveli National Theatre

The Rustaveli National Theatre stands as a monumental figure in Georgian performing arts. Founded in 1887 as the "Artists' Society," the theater was later named in 1921 after Georgia's national poet, Shota Rustaveli. The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed in an ornate Rococo style by Cornell K. Tatishchev and Aleksander Szymkiewicz. Inside, the theater boasts three stages: the main stage with approximately 800 seats, a small stage with 283 seats, and a Black Box Theatre with 182 seats for experimental performances. The theater has a rich history, having been renovated between 2002 and 2005 with funding from Georgian businessman Bidzina Ivanishvili. During the Soviet era, some of the original frescoes were whitewashed, though portions have since been restored. The Rustaveli National Theatre has played a significant role in shaping Georgian cultural expression. Its stage has hosted countless productions by the nation's best writers and artists. The theater is known for staging socially engaged and profoundly creative work, maintaining clarity of meaning and social relevance without artistic compromise. Today, the Rustaveli Theater continues to be a vibrant center for artistic expression and cultural dialogue, promoting Georgian theater on the global stage.

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