Khiva Puppet Theater

The State Puppet Theater of the Khorezm region is located near the walls of Ichan-Kala, the inner citadel of ancient Khiva. There are colorful folklore-style performances every day, charming Khorezm dances and various puppet shows.

Puppet craft has been a special art form in Khorezm since ancient times, this tradition originated in the VI–IV centuries BC, and gained special popularity in the XIV century. During the development of Zoroastrianism, puppet shows performed religious tasks and were designed to ward off evil spirits. Now these theatrical productions serve an entertainment function and tell the audience about the traditions of Uzbekistan.

Each doll has its own unique face, its own character. All of them are handmade by craftsmen from dynasties, passing on from generation to generation special secrets of how to breathe the soul into the initially stagnant and seemingly lifeless natural material. The characteristic national features and the identity of the Uzbek people shine through in the slightest lines of the doll's face, there are no minor details here, everything is filled with deep symbolism aimed at creating an intuitive, holistic image even for a foreigner. Clothes are also sewn in accordance with centuries-old traditions. When the doll is ready, the puppeteer gets down to business — the actor masterfully reveals the image of the doll and during the performance shares with the audience the ancient wisdom of the people.

The skill of puppeteers is passed down according to the ancient Uzbek tradition from master to pupil — such a transfer of knowledge is called "ust-shogird".

The theater originated from a small circle that organized puppet shows. The official opening of the theater took place in 1993, when it was located in the historic building of the old city of Khiva. Thanks to the support of the local administration, the theater received a hall designed for 289 spectators. The actors carefully prepare for their performances: they make their own decorations and dolls, perform songs and play musical instruments.

In 2017, the theater's premises were reconstructed and treated from termites that destroyed the building.