Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Yerevan’s Cultural Heritage
Date: 03/07/2025
Introduction
Located in the heart of Yerevan, the Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre is an iconic institution dedicated to Armenian cultural heritage and the art of puppetry. Established in 1935 and named after the celebrated poet Hovhannes Tumanyan, the theatre is central to preserving Armenian folklore, literature, and performing arts traditions. Over the decades, it has evolved from a small stage for children’s performances to a vibrant venue with a diverse repertoire for audiences of all ages. The adjacent Pavlos Boroyan Puppet Museum—the only one of its kind in Armenia—further enriches the visitor experience with displays of original puppets and stage designs.
Conveniently situated in Yerevan’s Kentron district on Sayat-Nova Avenue, the theatre is easily reachable by public transportation, taxis, or walking, and is surrounded by many of Yerevan’s most notable historical and cultural sites. With affordable ticket prices and welcoming facilities, it is an accessible destination for both locals and tourists seeking to immerse themselves in Armenian arts and history.
This guide provides an in-depth look at the theatre’s history, visiting logistics, program highlights, and practical tips for making the most of your visit.
(armpuppet.am, Armenia Travel, Yerevan Municipality)
Table of Contents
- Historical Overview
- The Pavlos Boroyan Puppet Museum
- Visitor Information
- Nearby Attractions
- Repertoire and Cultural Significance
- Visitor Experience
- The Theatre’s Role in Armenian Culture
- Practical Tips
- FAQs
- Visual Resources
- References
Historical Overview
Founding and Development
The Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre was founded on June 1, 1935, by stage director Sofya Bejanyan, artist Gevorg Arakelyan, and actors Pavlos Boroyan and Araksya Arabyan. Its mission was to introduce puppetry and dramatic arts to children and families, initially focusing on Armenian folklore and Tumanyan’s stories. Under the first director, Varia Stepanyan, the theatre’s debut was Samuel Marshak’s “Naughty Petik.” The early years saw national and international recognition, including a second-place award at the 1937 All-Union Festival of Puppet Theatres in Moscow.
The theatre expanded its repertoire during the 1940s, collaborating with prominent artists and staging classics like “Don Quixote” and “Gulliver’s Travels.” After a temporary closure in 1950, the troupe continued performances through the state concert organization, ArmConcert.
Revival and Artistic Expansion
In 1957, the theatre was revived with Yervand Manaryan as chief director and Flora Grigoryan as chief painter. Relocating to its permanent home on Sayat-Nova Avenue in 1975, the theatre broadened its audience and repertoire, introducing innovative productions for both children and adults. Noteworthy were adaptations of Armenian classics, Greek myths, and works by Chekhov and Andersen.
Since 1998, under the leadership of Ruben Babayan, the theatre has embraced new forms such as site-specific performances and shadow puppetry, staging up to 50 shows annually for more than 100,000 spectators. The current director, Artashes Babayan, continues this legacy, ensuring the theatre’s status as a cultural cornerstone and member of the international UNIMA puppetry organization.
The Pavlos Boroyan Puppet Museum
Located within the theatre complex, the Pavlos Boroyan Puppet Museum offers a unique glimpse into the history of Armenian puppetry. The museum houses original marionettes, stage props, and set designs, celebrating the craftsmanship and artistry that define the theatre’s productions. Interactive exhibits and educational programs make it suitable for visitors of all ages.
Visitor Information
Visiting Hours
- Theatre: Typically open Tuesday through Sunday, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Performances: Generally scheduled at 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM, with variations on weekends and holidays.
- Museum: Open during theatre hours.
Tickets and Prices
- Ticket Range: 1,000–4,000 AMD (approx. $2.50–$10 USD), depending on the show and seating.
- Where to Buy: At the box office, online via the official website, or through authorized local platforms.
- Discounts: Available for children, students, and seniors.
Accessibility and Facilities
- Wheelchair accessible: Ramps and special seating available.
- Restrooms: Modern and accessible.
- Cloakroom: For coats and bags.
- Family-friendly: Welcoming staff, clear signage, child-friendly amenities.
- Parking: Limited; public transport or taxis recommended.
Guided Tours and Special Events
- Guided Tours: Offered occasionally, including backstage and museum tours.
- Workshops: Interactive sessions and workshops for children and families are available during festivals and on special request.
Nearby Attractions
The theatre’s central location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring Yerevan’s vibrant cultural scene. Nearby sites include:
- Cascade Complex – Modern art and panoramic city views
- Vernissage Market – Traditional crafts and souvenirs
- Yerevan History Museum
- Opera Theatre, Freedom Square, Cafesjian Center for the Arts, Nairi Cinema, and historic churches
Repertoire and Cultural Significance
The theatre’s repertoire centers on Armenian literary classics, especially Tumanyan’s tales, alongside international fairy tales by authors like the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen. Productions feature vibrant sets, expressive puppetry, and live music, with minimal dialogue for broad accessibility. The theatre’s programming fosters cultural identity, intergenerational connection, and appreciation of Armenian heritage.
(Armenia Travel, Yerevan Municipality)
Visitor Experience
Visitors enjoy intimate performances in a cozy, family-friendly environment. The theatre accommodates 200–300 guests, ensuring a close connection to the stage. Children are captivated by the colorful puppets and interactive storytelling, while adults appreciate the cultural references and artistry. The adjacent museum complements the live performances with educational exhibits.
(Wikiwand)
The Theatre’s Role in Armenian Culture
As a pillar of Armenian cultural identity, the Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre transmits folklore, language, and values to new generations. It is a hub for artistic innovation, educational outreach, and social inclusion, offering performances for children with disabilities and collaborating with local organizations to ensure the arts are accessible to all.
The theatre’s international recognition through festivals and partnerships strengthens Armenia’s cultural diplomacy and introduces Armenian puppetry to worldwide audiences.
Practical Tips
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early for seating and to explore the museum.
- Check schedules online for up-to-date performance times.
- Carry small cash denominations for tickets and refreshments.
- Photography: Allowed in the lobby and museum, but not during performances.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions and local dining.
(Reddit)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the official visiting hours?
A: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–7:00 PM; performance times vary.
Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: At the box office, online via the official site, or through local event platforms.
Q: Is the theatre wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, ramps and accessible restrooms are available.
Q: Are there performances for adults?
A: Yes, the repertoire includes shows for adults and mixed audiences.
Q: Can I visit the museum separately?
A: Yes, during theatre opening hours.
Visual Resources
References
- Visiting the Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre in Yerevan: Hours, Tickets, and History, 2025, (armpuppet.am)
- Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre in Yerevan: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Cultural Highlights, 2025, (armenia.travel)
- Discover the Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre: Visiting Hours, Tickets & More, 2025, (trek.zone)
- Visitor Experience, 2025, (wikiwand.com)
- Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Cultural Highlights, 2025, (armenpress.am)
- Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre: Promotion of Performing Arts and Artistic Innovation, 2025, (yerevan.am)
- Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre Contribution to National Celebrations and Commemorations, 2025, (armeniadiscovery.com)
- Practical travel tips and cultural insights, 2025, (reddit.com)
Conclusion
The Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre remains a beacon of Armenian cultural life, delighting generations with its imaginative puppetry and dedication to national heritage. Its accessible visiting hours, affordable tickets, and central location make it an essential stop for anyone exploring Yerevan’s historical sites. To ensure a seamless and enriching visit, check the latest performance schedules and ticket availability through the official channels. Download the Audiala app for cultural updates, and immerse yourself in the magic of Armenian puppetry.
