Georgian Ministry of Culture has dismissed Davit Doiashvili, Director of the Vaso Abashidze Music and Drama Theater, citing the theater’s failure to fulfill its “founding duties.”

According to the ministry’s statement, “creative activities at the theatre had been suspended for months despite continuous funding from the state budget.

“Despite repeated warnings from the Ministry of Culture, the theatre management reportedly failed to fulfill its founding obligations,” the ministry explained.

David Doiashvili echoed the ministry’s move, saying that under his leadership, the theatre would not return to the stage until actor Andro Chichinadze is released from detention.

“Whether I stay or go is not important – what counts is the liberation of the political prisoners. Release them immediately. The theatre will not return today until they release Andro. That’s why they did what they did,” Doiashvili told supporters gathered at the theatre following his dismissal.

Vaso Abashidze Musical Comedy and Drama State Theatre Troupe also released a statement rejecting the ministry’s move. “We do not recognise the decision of the illegitimate Ministry of Culture, and we will not let David Doiashvili go.”

“An attack on David Doiashvili is an attack on each of us. This is punishment for solidarity and support, and an attack on every artist who serves the people and the state,” said actor Kakha Kintsurashvili, as he read the statement. “We, Theatre Troupe, whose member is currently in unjust captivity, cannot see progress and development without David Doiashvili’s leadership. We stand with him and will continue to stand until victory.”