Tbilisi Theater
Three “visiting cards" of Tbilisi, GEORGIA
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The Theatre
The Tbilisi Zakaria Paliashvili State Theater of Opera and Ballet, designed by the Italian architect Giovanni Scudieri, was established in 1851. On November 9 of the same year, the inaugural opera season commenced with a specially invited Italian troupe, presenting Donizetti's "Lucia di Lammermoor."
Despite facing two unfortunate fire incidents, the Opera building has left a lasting impression, even on Alexandre Dumas, who visited Tbilisi in 1859. Today, the Opera stands as a modern and updated structure.
Since 1937, the Opera Theater has been named after the Georgian classicist Paliashvili. Each year, the season begins with Paliashvili's timeless opera "Abesalom and Eteri" and concludes with the opera "Daisi."
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS PLACE
The Opera House represents an exemplary showcase of Moorish architecture, ranking among the most breathtaking buildings in the world. A notable hallmark is Sergo Kobuladze's curtain, serving as the theater's "visiting card." Additionally, The grandeur continues with the restoration of the central Austrian crystal chandelier—one of Europe's most luxurious and sizable, featuring 600 crystals.
Adding to the Opera Theater's allure is its charming garden, which is the final resting place of luminaries such as Zakaria Paliashvili, founder of the National School of Composers, and esteemed Georgian tenors Vano Sarajishvili and Zurab Anjafaridze.
Recognized as a member of Opera Europa, the theater holds a distinguished status of national importance.
THIS PLACE IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE
The Tbilisi Opera Theater has been the focal point of the country's cultural life for over a century and a half, as it is a building with a distinguished history. After the second fire, it has been meticulously renovated, preserving its distinctive pseudo-Moorish style.
Moreover, on its stage, opera and ballet stars grace audiences with performances that rival the world's greatest theaters. At the helm of the ballet troupe is the internationally acclaimed Georgian prima-ballerina, Nino Ananiashvili, honored with the Order of the Italian Solidarity Star by the President of Italy.
In a historic moment in 2023, the world witnessed the premiere of the Georgian opera "Daisi" at the Massimo Bellini Opera Theater, marking a significant milestone in the records of cultural achievement.
SPECIAL TIPS
Experience the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater, the iconic symbol of Georgia's capital. A visit promises immense pleasure as the theater, often regarded as the "visiting card" of the city, captivates with its stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and halls adorned with mirrors, leaving a lasting impression on its guests. Beyond the theatrical marvels, the theater's garden offers a delightful space for relaxation, completing the overall enchanting experience.
In 1851, on November 9, a specially invited Italian troupe started the season with Gaetano Donizetti's opera. Following the performance, on the left bank of the Mtkvari river, the troupe joined the national festivities and celebrated all night long on boats.
During this time, even young boys in the streets joyfully sang: "La donna è Mobile," echoing the spirited ambiance of the cultural celebration.
