On May 11, 2024, Cyprus Armenians had a spiritual experience in the presence of the Hamazkayin Kusan-Sipan Song and Dance Group, which hosted an event unprecedented in the diaspora experience.
Indeed, this 24th annual event of Hamazkayin Cyprus, under the joint auspices of the minister of culture, Dr. Vasiliki Kassianidou, and the representative of the Armenian community in the Cyprus House of Representatives, Vartkes Mahdessian, brought together two groups: the Kusan Choir from Lebanon and the Sipan Dance Ensemble from Nicosia.
Two long-serving artists, conductor Krikor Alozian and dance instructor Krikor Keleshian collaborated and, under Mr. Keleshian’s general artistic direction, they developed a program that impressed not only the gathered Armenians but also the large number of Greek Cypriots, foreign visitors, and dignitaries.
Arto Tavitian, chairperson of the chapter executive board, opened the event. The minister of culture said a few words. Then the main program began with joint and individual performances by the two groups. Also on stage were the Hamazkayin Ani dance group from Paphos, the Giligia dance group from Limassol, and the Nanor children’s dance group from Nicosia.
It was a high-quality performance, virtually flawless, which will be remembered for years by Cyprus Armenians and especially by the performers and their instructors, who experienced moments of joy and satisfaction throughout the performance.
