Renovated Drama Theater Opens in Batumi

The renovated drama theater has opened in Georgia’s Black Sea coastal city of Batumi.

Apart from the restoration of the building, state-of-the-art lighting and sound amplification systems have been installed.

In addition, new stage mechanisms and modern technologies have been arranged which will enable the troupe to indulge in the most sophisticated experiments and host world-class theater performers.

The large and small halls of the theater will be able to host concurrent performances with 480 seats and with access for the disabled.

Cartu Foundation spent GEL14.5 million GEL ($5.45 m) on the rehabilitation of Ilia Chavchavadze Professional State Drama Theater building and it was opened by the Prime Minister of Georgia, Mamuka Bakhtadze.

"The Batumi Drama Theater has acquired a new life and I wish to congratulate all residents of Batumi and entire Georgia with this milestone,” he stated.

Bakhtadze thanked Cartu Foundation and its founder Bidzina Ivanishvili for renovating the building.

“I wish to thank Bidzina Ivanishvili - a great supporter of Georgian theater art and Georgian culture as a whole- for this endeavor,” he added.

He noted the restored theater will enable the city to promote and showcase the Georgian art potential with its full might.

“I am overwhelmed with happiness as along with you, other world-class troupes will also be able to take part in the cultural life of the city. It once again underlines the status of Batumi as a city of art festivals. Supporters of Georgian theater art and culture, please once again accept my heartfelt congratulations with this milestone," Bakhtadze stated.

By Thea Morrison