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Puppet Theatre in Khiva

Puppet Theatre in Khiva

Puppet shows, a time-honored tradition in numerous cultures, have their roots deeply embedded in history. Emerging during the Middle Ages, these shows found a home in bustling squares, becoming an integral part of fairs and folk festivals. The primitive stages with screens showcased mini-scenes portraying the lives of commoners, the wealthy, tales of love, friendship, and betrayal. In Uzbekistan, the tradition of puppet theater has ancient origins dating back to the VI-IV centuries BC, gaining widespread acceptance during the XIV century under the reign of Timur and Timurid.

Among the contemporary puppet theaters in Uzbekistan, the State Puppet Theatre of Khorezm, situated in the historic city of Khiva, stands out with its distinctive allure. Unlike other puppet theaters, Khiva’s theater transports audiences back to the medieval bazaar performances, evoking the spirit of past centuries through theatrical presentations, puppets, and narrative style. This unique feature has not only endeared the Khiva Puppet Theatre to the local audience but has also garnered enthusiastic acclaim from international spectators.

The Khiva Puppet Theatre gained international recognition in 2011 when it presented the play “Khiva Lazgi” at the First National Puppet Theater Festival in Baku, receiving an honorary diploma. Subsequently, in September 2013, the theater achieved success in Darmstadt and Frankfurt, Germany, further solidifying its reputation on the global stage.

The history of the Khiva Puppet Theatre is as captivating as its performances. Two decades ago, a puppetry hobby group flourished in Khiva, and with the support of the local administration, the first and only puppet theater in the Khorezm region was inaugurated in 1993. Housed within the historic Ichan-Kala building dating back to the 1930s, the theater’s initial troupe comprised members of the hobby group. Today, a team of 20 individuals, including talented young artists, carries on the legacy of puppetry using the usto-shogird tradition, where knowledge is passed down from master to apprentice.

The puppeteers at Khiva Puppet Theatre are not only skilled in staging plays but also adept in crafting scenery, sewing dolls and costumes, playing musical instruments, dancing, and singing. The theater’s repertoire boasts about 60 performances, with favorites like “Khiva Lazgi,” “Khon Kabuli,” and the timeless character of Khoja Nasreddin. Although the performances are currently in Uzbek, plans are underway to translate them into other languages. However, even in Uzbek, the stories are simple, humorous, and visually expressive, ensuring universal understanding.

Presently undergoing renovation, the theater is receiving treatment against termite damage, with the completion expected in 2022. During this period, performances are held in the building’s main lobby, and the theater also organizes guest performances for tourists through travel agencies. Despite a token ticket price of $10, the true reward for the theater artists lies in the genuine admiration and joy expressed by their grateful audience. The Khiva Puppet Theatre, with its rich history and ongoing commitment to preserving tradition, continues to be a beacon of cultural enrichment in the region.

Address: 12, Mustakillik str., Khiva
Orienting point: inside the Ichan-Kala
Admission: by tickets
Price: $5-6

Performances are available on request

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