Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theater is located on Shavteli Street in Tbilisi’s Old Town and was founded by renowned Georgian artist and director Rezo Gabriadze in 1981. The theater is known for its distinctive architecture and handcrafted puppet performances.
Its iconic Clock Tower, created by Gabriadze in 2010, has become one of Tbilisi’s most recognizable landmarks. Every hour, an angel emerges from a small painted door and rings a bell. Twice a day, at 12:00 and 19:00, visitors can watch the puppet show “The Circle of Life.”
The theater has performed internationally and participated in numerous festivals. Its facade features Gabriadze’s motto: “Let tears flow only from cutting onions.” The theater café, Gabriadze, is located beside the tower, while the historic Anchiskhati Basilica, dating to the 6th century, is just nearby.
Traveler Tips
- Check the performance schedule and book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows.
- Arrive a little early to admire the theater’s unique interior and charming surroundings.
- Combine your visit with Anchiskhati Basilica, Shardeni Street and the Old Town, all within walking distance.
- Don’t miss the theater’s Clock Tower — one of Tbilisi’s most photographed landmarks.
Fun Facts
- The theater was founded by renowned Georgian artist, writer and director Rezo Gabriadze in 1981.
- It is famous for its handcrafted marionette performances, combining puppetry, storytelling and Georgian culture.
- The theater’s iconic Clock Tower was designed and built by Rezo Gabriadze himself.
- Every hour, an angel appears from a small door in the tower and rings a bell.
- The tower is affectionately known as the “Leaning Tower of Tbilisi” because of its unusual, slightly tilted design.
