Vardan Ajemyan State Drama Theatre
Gyumri's repertory drama company, playing Armenian and international plays in its 1963 house.
Theatre in Gyumri, then Alexandropol, goes back to amateur companies of the 1860s, and the city was long known for its comic and satirical stage traditions. A permanent state company was formed in 1928 and later took the name of the director Vardan Ajemyan, who was born in the city and became one of the leading figures of twentieth-century Armenian theatre. The company survived the 1988 Spitak earthquake, which badly damaged Gyumri, and has continued to work in the city since.
The present building dates from 1963 and stands close to Vardanants Square in the centre of town. The repertoire mixes Armenian classics such as Levon Shant's The Princess of the Fallen Fortress with translated drama by writers including Tennessee Williams, together with new work and productions for children. The theatre also hosts guest companies and concerts, among them appearances by the Armenian National Philharmonic Orchestra.
Highlights
- Repertory company named after the director Vardan Ajemyan
- Armenian classics staged alongside translated modern drama
- Regular productions for children and family audiences
- Used as a concert venue by visiting orchestras
