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Robert SturuaChief director and artistic director of the Tbilisi Theater named after Shota Rustaveli
Country:
 Georgia |
Biography of Robert Sturua
Robert R. Sturua, the principal director and artistic director of the Shota Rustaveli Theatre in Tbilisi, was born in 1938 in Tbilisi, Georgia. He comes from a family with a strong revolutionary background, with his great-grandfather being known for his intelligence and kindness. Sturua's father, Robert Ivanovich Sturua, was a renowned Georgian artist, and his mother, Tsutsa Bolkvadze, was an English language specialist and art historian.
Sturua graduated from the directing department of the Tbilisi Theatre Institute in 1962 and has been working at the Shota Rustaveli Theatre ever since. He became the chief director of the theatre in 1979 and the artistic director in 1980. Sturua's diverse talent, wide artistic range, erudition, and impeccable taste have greatly influenced the creative identity of this prestigious theatre over the past 30 years.
Sturua's first major success came with his production of "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller in 1965. This marked a turning point in his career, as he veered towards conceptual directing, rejecting melodrama and sentimentality in favor of precise expression and multi-dimensional imagery. He went on to create a series of remarkable productions in the 1970s, earning the theatre the reputation of "Sturua's theatre."
In his work, Sturua never rests on his laurels or confines himself to established norms. He constantly seeks to explore the entertaining and playful aspects of theatre while remaining attuned to the pulse of contemporary society. His productions often combine elements of grotesque and psychological drama, clowning and tragedy, melodrama and farce within the framework of conceptual directing.
Sturua's approach to theatre became increasingly philosophical, examining the essence of human existence and the nature of the world. He delves into metaphysical realities and questions the infallibility of truths, suggesting that even intellect cannot serve as an unbiased judge. Sturua encourages people to turn inward and listen to their emotions, combining epic theatre with romantic lyricism and tragic wisdom with the naivety of faith.
Sturua's productions have brought international acclaim to the Shota Rustaveli Theatre. His works have been showcased at prestigious festivals worldwide, and Georgian actors have captivated audiences from Argentina to Australia. Sturua has also directed numerous operas, both classical and contemporary, infusing them with his unique vision and interpretation.
Throughout his career, Sturua has received numerous awards and honors, including the State Prize of the USSR, the State Prize of Russia, and the State Prize of Georgia. He is a People's Artist of the USSR and the Georgian SSR, as well as a recipient of the Order of Honor of Georgia and the Presidential Gold Medal for his outstanding contributions to the development of Georgian theatre.
Sturua continues to live and work in Tbilisi, leaving an indelible mark on the world of theatre with his innovative and thought-provoking productions.
