BATUMI DRAMA
THEATRE

History of the Theatre

Batumi Ilia Chavchavadze
State Drama Theatre

The history of theatrical life in Adjara dates back to antiquity, as the Roman settlement of Gonio (Apsaros) was already equipped with a theatre. However, modern Georgian theatre in the region was established on July 8, 1879, when local amateur performers staged the first performance. Over time, it developed into the third professional theatre in Georgia, was awarded the status of “Academic” in 1921, and in 1959 was named after Ilia Chavchavadze. Throughout the decades, the theatre has undergone continuous renewal through new generations, actively participated in international cultural processes, and gained wide recognition. Today, in a fully rehabilitated building, the theatre continues its historical traditions under the leadership of actor and director Kote Mzhavia.