Rustaveli Theatre 🇬🇪

Located right on Tbilisi's Rustaveli Avenue, the Tbilisi State Academic Theater named after Shota Rustaveli—commonly known as the Rustaveli Theater—is the largest and one of the oldest theaters in Georgia. Founded in 1887 as an "Artists' Society," this historic venue was renamed in 1921 after Georgia's national poet, Rustaveli. When you visit, you will encounter a grand Rococo-style edifice designed by architects Cornell K.

Tatishchev and Tbilisi's Municipal Architect, Aleksander Szymkiewicz, with initial funding provided by Alexander Mantashev. Between 2002 and 2005, the building underwent a thorough renovation largely funded by Georgian businessman Bidzina Ivanishvili. Inside, you can discover a remarkable history of art; set designer Serge Sudeikin alongside celebrated Georgian painters Lado Gudiashvili, David Kakabadze, Mose Toidze, and Iracly Toidze painted stunning frescoes on the basement walls and ceilings.

Though these masterpieces were whitewashed during Soviet rule, a small portion has been carefully restored for visitors to appreciate today. The facility houses three distinct performance spaces: a main stage seating about 800 people, a small stage with 283 seats, and a 182-seat Black Box Theatre dedicated to experimental performances, alongside a large ballroom, a small ballroom, and a small foyer available for events.

What to see at Rustaveli Theatre

• Ornate Rococo-style architecture on Tbilisi's Rustaveli Avenue
• Georgia's largest and one of its oldest historic theaters
• Three distinct stages, including an 800-seat main stage and a 182-seat Black Box Theatre
• Restored basement frescoes by renowned painters like Lado Gudiashvili and Serge Sudeikin

Visiting tips

Be sure to look out for the small portion of restored basement frescoes that survived whitewashing from the period of Soviet rule.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Evening

How to get there & what’s nearby

Rustaveli Theatre is easy to reach on Tbilisi’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Tbilisi travel guide.