Among the contemporary puppet theaters in Uzbekistan, the State Puppet Theatre of Khorezm stands out for its unique atmosphere and historical significance. This theater, situated in Khiva, is the only puppet theater in Uzbekistan where the spirit of medieval bazaar performances is still palpable. The theater’s puppets, plots, and style of live action transport audiences back to centuries past, making it a popular destination not only for locals but also for international visitors.
In 2011, the theater garnered international recognition by presenting the play “Khiva Lazgi” at the First National Puppet Theater Festival in Baku, earning an honorary diploma. The theater also achieved significant success in Germany, with performances in Darmstadt and Frankfurt in 2013.
The theater’s history is as fascinating as the performances it stages. Around twenty years ago, a hobby group dedicated to puppetry was active in Khiva. With the support of the local administration, this group evolved into a formal theater. In 1993, a 289-seat puppet theater was established in the historic Ichan-Kala building, dating back to the 1930s. The theater’s initial troupe consisted of members from the former hobby group. Today, the theater’s team includes 20 individuals, comprising talented young men and women. They continue the traditional Uzbek method of stagecraft known as usto-shogird, where skills are passed from master to apprentice.
The artists at the State Puppet Theatre of Khorezm are multifaceted, not only performing plays but also creating the scenery, sewing the puppets and costumes, playing musical instruments, dancing, and singing. The theater’s repertoire includes around 60 performances, featuring folk and children’s programs. Some of the most popular shows are “Khiva Lazgi” and “Khon Kabuli,” with the beloved character Khoja Nasreddin appearing in many productions. Although the performances are primarily in Uzbek, the expressive storytelling ensures that the audience can follow along regardless of language barriers. Plans are underway to translate the shows into other languages to reach a broader audience.
The theater building is currently undergoing renovations, including treatment for termite damage. In the meantime, performances are held in the theater’s main lobby or organized as guest shows for tourists, often in collaboration with travel agencies. Despite the nominal ticket price of $10, the theater’s artists find their greatest reward in the enthusiastic appreciation of their audience.
