<<Goris Drama Theater named after V. Vagharshyan>> SNCO It is one of the most important cultural centers of Armenian theatrical life, the roots of which reach the stage of the ancient Goris rock-cut theater. Goris has been a center of living theatrical art for centuries: amateur groups have been formed here, performances have been given since the end of the 19th century, and in 1936. the city’s drama theater was officially opened, based on the work of many talented actors and directors. The theater has been an arena of challenges and victories throughout its history. In 1938. having state status, the theater became the main stage center of Southern Armenia, presenting to the audience such works as “For Honor”, “Pepo”, “Brave Nazar”, “Sos and Varditer” and other dramatic and comedic performances. In 1944. The theater was named after the great Armenian actor Vagharsh Vagharshyan, receiving the high title of the successor of his art. In the post-war and Soviet years, the theater formed its professional school, staging national, historical and modern works, participating in dozens of regional and republican festivals, and enjoying great recognition both in the region and in the capital. Legends of Armenian theater have performed on the Goris stage: Vahram Papazyan, Hrachya Nersisyan, Avet Avetisyan, Gurgen Janibekyan, David Malyan and other great actors. In 2005, the theater came under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia, reaching a new stage of development. In recent decades, the theater has continuously staged contemporary, children’s, classical and experimental works, collaborating with artists from Armenia and abroad. Today, the Goris Theater is the main cultural center of the region, presenting new productions, educational programs, theater weeks, festival participation and tours both in Armenia and abroad. 2023–2025 The theater has performed in Tbilisi, Gavar, Gyumri, Kapan, Kajaran, and is also preparing for tours in France and Iran. With the support of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports of the Republic of Armenia, the Goris V. Vagharshyan Drama Theater participated in the “Navruz” International Festival of Professional Theaters in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, from May 1-7, 2025, with the performance of Aksel Bakunts' “Mirhav”. Since 2025, the theater’s chief director has been David Harutyunyan, under whose leadership a new creative stage has begun, starting with the staging of “Abu-Lala Mahar” based on the poem by Avetik Isahakyan. Our mission To preserve, develop and spread the Armenian theatrical tradition, while presenting modern approaches, stimulating the creative development of the new generation and ensuring a full-fledged community with cultural life. Our values High artistic quality Cultural education and accessibility Armenian theatrical Heritage Preservation Creative Innovation Deepening Community Connection Today, the Goris V. Vagharshyan Drama Theater continues its historical mission, remaining one of the most important cultural centers in southern Armenia.
