The annual joint performance of both ensembles of Hamazkayin took place on Sunday, July 10, 2016 at 6: 00, at "G. Yesayan" Hall of Hamazkayin, under the patronage of Armenian Prelacy Bishop Shahan Sarkissian. The event took place in the presence of the Prelate, representatives of the Catholic and Evangelical communities, National Board members and representatives of sport, cultural and benevolent unions of Aleppo. It was organized by "Nigol Aghpalian" Chapter of Hamazkayin. The artistic directors of the performance were Nanor and Vrej Terzians.
The ceremony began with the anthems of the Republics of Armenia and Syria. Then, the audience hold a moment of silence to honor the memory of the martyrs of Syria, after which Lisa Minassian delivered the opening speech in Arabic. She spoke about the importance of dance in people’s life, "Dance expresses the glorious history of a nation, it has been the first mean expressing human emotions. Dance purifies soul and makes you happy, especially when the dancers are small children and agile, enthusiastic young performers. Today, on this stage, you will watch the joint performance by "Sardarapat" and "Shushi" Dance Ensembles".
Marine Margarian delivered the opening speech in Armenian. She said, "The dance and song "Sardarapat" Ensemble of Hamazkayin Aleppo was founded in 1967, and now, it is almost 50 years old. During those 50 years, the ensemble, due to the tireless work of young and faithful Armenians of Aleppo, and, thanks to the consistent efforts of dance instructors, achieved a great success. In 2003, the local administrations decided to establish a choreographic school for Aleppo children. Here Children and Youth Ensemble "Shushi" was established. In a very short period, it became a live body existing in the reality of the culture-lover Armenian community of Aleppo. It greatly contributed to the vital process of preparing dancers, and ensured the increase of the young generation in the sphere of choreographic art.
Soon, the "Sardarapat" and "Shushi" Ensembles are going to make a tour for their joint performances in different countries of the world and to learn about their cultures. Their first and last stop will be in Syria, especially in Aleppo, to fix the Armenian community’s unyielding will to survive".