Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre Information | Photos | Location

Nestled in the heart of Yerevan along the bustling Sayat-Nova Avenue, the Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre is where fantasy and folklore come alive. Whether you’re a curious traveler, an art lover, or a family with kids in tow, this enchanting theatre offers a captivating journey into Armenian storytelling traditions.

Named after Armenia’s national literary treasure, Hovhannes Tumanyan, the theatre has been delighting audiences since the 1930s. With handcrafted puppets, timeless tales, and imaginative staging, it’s a cultural highlight you won’t want to miss on your Yerevan adventure.

🕰️ Theatre Timings & Good-to-Know Info

• Opening Hours: Daily from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Showtimes: Typically at 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM—especially on weekends and holidays

• Ticket Price: Around 1,000–2,000 AMD (extremely affordable for families)

• Address: 4 Sayat-Nova Avenue, Kentron District, Yerevan

• Best for: Families, culture lovers, and curious travelers of all ages

It’s a small but atmospheric venue, so arriving 15–20 minutes early is a smart move if you want the best seats.

🎟️ What to Expect at the Puppet Theatre

This isn’t just a puppet show—it’s a full-fledged theatrical experience. Expect colorful sets, expressive puppet characters, live music, and occasionally even actors weaving in and out of the action.

Highlights Include:

• Stories by Tumanyan: From “The Dog and the Cat” to “Anoush and the Goat,” Armenia’s rich literary tales are brought to life in visual form.

• International & Classic Tales: Fairy tales from Grimm and Andersen often make guest appearances.

• The Puppet Museum: Before or after a show, don’t miss the permanent exhibition in the lobby—featuring original puppets, marionettes, and stage designs from decades past.

• Minimal Dialogue: Many performances use mime, music, and puppetry without much talking, making it accessible no matter your language.

Shows typically last between 45 minutes and an hour—perfect for younger viewers without sacrificing depth for adults.

🛣️ How to Get There

Reaching the Puppet Theatre is easy—it’s located right in Yerevan’s city center.

Transport Options:

• On Foot: A 10-minute walk from Republic Square or Opera House.

• By Metro: Get off at Republic Square station and walk northeast.

• By Taxi or App: Use apps like GG, Yandex Go, or Utaxi; simply search “Puppet Theatre Yerevan.”

You can easily combine your visit here with nearby attractions like Vernissage Market, Northern Avenue, or Saryan Street.

🍽️ What to Eat Nearby

Before or after the show, indulge in some local flavors. This area is packed with great eateries:

Nearby Food Options:

• Café Central – A cozy, family-friendly spot with salads, grilled meats, and fresh juices.

• Lavash Restaurant – A 10-minute walk away, this is a must-try for traditional Armenian food like khorovats, tolma, and freshly baked lavash.

• Street Food Alert – Try Armenian gata (sweet bread), sujukh (walnut-stuffed grape molasses candy), or grab an ice cream from local vendors.

Craving something quick? Nearby bakeries serve fresh cheese jingalov hats (herb-stuffed bread) and coffee to go.

🌍 Travel Tips & Safety

• Book Ahead: Especially on weekends or school holidays—shows often sell out.

• Arrive Early: Not just for seating, but to explore the puppet museum inside the theatre.

• Photography: Avoid flash photography during performances; photos are welcome in the lobby.

• Cultural Etiquette: Locals appreciate quiet attention during shows—kids are encouraged to enjoy, but respectful viewing is the norm.

• Language Barrier? No worries! Many shows are visual and musical, making them universally enjoyable.

The area is well-lit, safe, and tourist-friendly—even for solo travelers or families with young kids.

💡 Why It Belongs on Your Yerevan Itinerary

The Hovhannes Tumanyan Puppet Theatre is more than a stage—it’s a celebration of Armenian creativity, history, and warmth. For families, it’s a joyful memory-maker. For solo travelers and culture buffs, it offers an authentic glimpse into Armenian arts.

Whether you spend an hour here or an afternoon exploring the shows and puppetry displays, it’s a heartwarming and unexpected highlight of any Yerevan travel experience.