Mikheil Chkhenkeli congratulates prominent figures of the Georgian theater on their vocational day

The Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Georgia, Mikheil Chkhenkeli congratulates prominent figures of the Georgian Theater on their vocational day:

"Today marks a significant day- the day of Georgian theater!

Notably, the celebration of this day has a 171-year tradition in Georgia and has been celebrated since 1850, after the premiere of the comedy "Divorce" by Giorgi Eristavi.

I wholeheartedly congratulate the figures of the Georgian theater on their vocational day! I wish you creative advancement and all the success.

The history of Georgian theater dates to the distant past before the Christian Era. The surviving theater building in Uplistsikhe demonstrates that the ancient theatrical culture was well established in ancient Georgia.

Throughout history, theatre culture in our country has not stopped developing. I am proud, that this creative and glorious vocation has always had a special place in the life of Georgian society.

In 1881, Ilia Chavchavadze, Akaki Tsereteli, Ivane Machabeli, Vaso Abashidze, Dimitri Kipiani and others founded the Georgian Theater Society, the first chairman of which was Ilia Chavchavadze himself.

As you may know, the role of theater is great in the formation of a modern and progressive society and in raising national awareness.

Today, in light of the raging pandemic, the cultural life of the country is facing serious obstacles. 2020 turned out to be challenging for the Georgian theater. But, despite everything, through joint efforts and perseverance, we were able to maintain cultural life in the country. Georgian Theater has innovatively brought performances to the audience and moved them to virtual and open spaces. During this period about 50 new plays were staged, all traditional festivals were held without interruptions. Moreover, with the support of the Ministry, a new "Digital Theater Festival" was created, where the involvement of young creators was paramount. 

Moreover, I would like to emphasize that our team will always stand by the Georgian theater and support the development of theatre life.

Congratulations once again on the Day of Georgian Theater, I wish you more premieres, festivals, many spectators and best of luck”.