The history of the Kutaisi Theatre is made rich by prominent public figures, culture and theatre representatives, as well as significant theatrical events. The great traditions are proudly carried on by the Meskhishvilians’ new generation.

  On March 3, 1861 the first historical performance, G. Eristavi’s comedy “Break Up”, was performed by amateur actors in Kutaisi. This performance gave birth to a new movement in history of the Georgian Theatre. In 1885, Kote Meskhi, a famous actor and director, became the head of a professional troupe that was founded in 1880.

  During 1894-1905 years the manager of the Kutaisi theatre was the great Georgian actor and director, public figure Lado Aleksi Meskhishvili.

  In 1928 under the leadership of Kote Marjanishvili, another state theatre, the Kutaisi-Batumi Theatre, was established in Kutaisi. During the first two theatrical seasons, this great director and actor, together with the most eminent stars of Georgia, staged his best performances here.

  The Kutaisi Theatre was named in honor of Lado Meskhishvili in 1940. A new building, with its unique architectural structure, was officially opened in 1955 and in 2009 was granted the status of a monument.

  In 2008 a new 100 seat stage and a theatre museum, depicting its history, opened.

  Initiated by the Ministry of Culture and Monument Protection of Georgia, the Grand Star unveiling ceremonies were held between 2009 and 2013 to honor artists Anzor Kherkhadze, Eva Khutunashvili, Eremia Svanadze, Natela Sagharadze and Lamara Vashakidze, who shaped Georgian culture and gained wide audiences. Their stars, displayed at the main entrance, proudly welcome theatre lovers to this magnificent building.

THEATRE

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