Iliauni Theatre’s Performances “Spineless” and “The Woes of the Darispan” Among Recommended Shows at the Tbilisi International Theatre Festival
Iliauni Theatre’s productions “Spineless” and “The Misfortune of the Darispan” have been selected among the 17 recommended performances of the Georgian program at the Tbilisi International Theatre Festival. The recommended list was curated by a committee of theatre critics.
It is noteworthy that the directors of both productions, Saba Aslamazishvili and Gela Guliashvili, are graduates of the Theatre Program at Ilia State University.
“The Misfortune of the Darispan” is a century-old story about a man who tirelessly takes one of his four unmarried daughters from house to house—among friends, relatives, neighbors, and acquaintances—hoping to find her a suitable husband and secure her future. This simultaneously tragic and comical tale is steeped in deep love for a country that was “constantly attacked but never died.” The story is a mirror image of Georgia’s own fate—like Darispan, the country seeks salvation elsewhere: in the hands of others, in being “married off” to outsiders, and in the illusion of a better life that returns like a boomerang, deepening the sense of hopelessness. What matters more: freedom or a comfortable life? The director and actors invite the audience to explore a path that could ensure the survival of both Darispan’s family and the future of Georgia. The production was supported by the financial assistance of Tbilisi City Hall.
“Spineless” tells the story of what it’s like to live in Georgia when you are different. What can you oppose to the indifference of friends, family, society, and your country? How can you survive—or is it even worth surviving—when no one needs you, no one understands you? This tragic story, written by playwright Alex Chigvinadze and based on real events, reflects broader societal issues. It compels us to reflect on how to change a country where parents are forced to secretly bury their child—who had a different sexual orientation—hidden from neighbors, their village, and the nation.
“The Misfortune of the Darispan” will be performed on September 23 and 24, and “Spineless” on September 26 and 27.
Attendance is free for festival guests.