THEATER AND GEORGIAN IDENTITY (WITH THE REPRESENTATION OF „IVERIA“)

Abstract

Theater was of particular importance for the survival of Georgian identity because during the period of Russian rule, theater was not only a place of recreation, but also a means of public use of the national language.
In terms of denationalization of Georgians, theater was to become the main means for maintaining identity, awakening society and strengthening national consciousness, that is, Georgian theater was to create a space of new national understanding of identity.
Based on the above, I present the history of Georgian theater from a different perspective by analyzing the publications of the printed media of Iberia. The various materials give the discussions of plays staged on the Georgian scene, as well
as the critical analysis of the performances, plays and works of the artists. In addition, the media covered information about past performances and performance promoters.
The rich and varied publications confirm the special importance of Georgian theater in the struggle for preserving Georgian identity. The performances were given in Georgian, and the evening was followed by a recitation of Georgian poetry, which inflamed and enhanced the sentiments of the quite big audience. Moreover, often the performances were charitable: they helped poor students as well as those affected by floods, or supported the establishment of schools or library. Such facts should have served as an example for the whole of Georgia.
Thus, the theater was in many ways involved in the national cause: it raised the spirit of the guests, made charity acts, and affirmed and bonded the Georgian identity.