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Theatre on the Frontline: The 2024 Independent Prize to Be Announced During Protest Demonstration

The Independent Prize, founded in 2023, was established to recognize, honor, and support independent theatre companies and artists in Georgia. Serving as both a beacon of hope and a catalyst for the growth of independent theatre, the prize plays a vital role in upholding the principles of artistic freedom and creativity. Its inception represents a significant step toward building an autonomous theatre ecosystem—one that embraces diversity, fosters innovation, and stands resilient against systemic challenges within an increasingly restrictive cultural landscape.

In recent years, Georgia’s cultural sector—particularly the theatre industry—has faced growing challenges. Independent artists, especially younger generations, have been excluded from government funding and essential resources, creating barriers to artistic innovation and diversity. The enactment of oppressive measures, such as the so-called “Agents Law” and the “Anti-LGBTQ+ Law,” has further jeopardized the rights of artists to freely express themselves, as the broader political climate becomes increasingly hostile to dissent.

Georgia is currently witnessing widespread unrest following the government’s departure from its Euro-Atlantic commitments and its suppression of democratic principles. Protests have been ongoing for nearly a year, culminating in violent crackdowns over the past 17 days. Among those targeted are theatre artists who have stood in solidarity with fellow citizens in defense of freedom. Many have faced police brutality, been arrested in their homes, and now face severe prison sentences of up to nine years simply for exercising their right to protest.

In light of these events, the winners of the 2024 Independent Prize will be announced on December 17th at 8:00 PM. Departing from tradition, this year’s announcement will take place during a protest demonstration—at the heart of where the voices of Georgian theatre and its audiences resonate the loudest today.

The Independent Prize has become more than just an award; it stands as a declaration of solidarity with artists who resist oppression and use their craft to advocate for justice. It serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of independent art and its role in preserving the integrity of a nation’s cultural and democratic identity.

The Independent Prize was founded by Tea Kakhiani, Gvantsa Guliashvili, and Tata Mukeria.

The management team is coordinated by Ana Kvinikadze. All founders and team members are distinguished theatrologists, dedicated to fostering the growth of independent theatre in Georgia.

This year’s awards are supported by:

The Civil Society Foundation, sponsoring the award for Best Performance.

The Khazaradze Family Foundation for Culture, sponsoring the award for Best Performer.

Coca-Cola Bottlers Georgia, sponsoring the award for Best Scenography.

E-mail: georgiantheatre.ge@yahoo.com