The Rector of the Shota Rustaveli Theater and Film University, Giorgi Shalutashvili, signed an order to shut down the Center for the Development of Contemporary Theatrical Art, also known as “Temur Chkheidze’s Workshop.”
The workshop, long considered a necessary space for innovation and mentorship in Georgian theater, now faces unforseen closure, with no clear justification provided by the university.
Director Data Tavadze said the decision came right after the university’s board was restructured. “To close the workshop, Rector Shalutashvili rushed to appoint three new board members: directors Andro Enukidze, Giorgi Sikharulidze, and theater critic Gia Tsqitishvili,” Tavadze wrote on social media.
Gia Tskitishvili was named the chairman of the board during the same session. Without any explanation, he quickly announced the decision regarding the workshop.
The decision sparked backlash in Georgia’s theater community. Revered director Temur Chkheidze, whose name the workshop carries, responded with a sharp statement: “No political or state formation can ever absolve a person of their conscience.”
