On October 18, 2025, the Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society's Vancouver “Varag” Chapter celebrated its 44th anniversary with an inspiring and magnificent performance dedicated to Armenian song, dance, and art, Horizon reports. The event took place in the Lazarian Hall of the Armenian Centre in Vancouver, in the presence of a large and enthusiastic audience.
The event opened with the national anthems of Armenia and Canada, followed by an opening speech delivered by Heghine Aramian. After her address, the emcees for the evening, Meghrig Chapanian and Ani Misakian, smoothly guided the audience throughout the evening, presenting a rich and splendid program.
The program included choral songs, individual singing performances, and poetry recitations, performed by the “Mesrob Mashtots” Choir, conducted by Kevork Kadehjian, accompanied by pianist Lar Siserian, as well as traditional Armenian dances performed by the “Masis” Dance Ensemble, whose choreographer is Pyunig Betrosian. A pleasant duduk accompaniment was provided by duduk players Nayiri Babayan and Raffi Chapanian.
The program was enriched by the exceptional participation of the sweet-voiced soprano Alice Antranigian and pianists Krikor Semerjian and Aya Chapanian, who brought the creative spirit of our people to life on stage. The evening was a testament to talent, dedication, and art for everyone, underscoring the constant place and meaning of culture in our lives.
Gratitude was expressed to all the teachers, dance instructors, artistic directors, choirmasters, volunteers, and organizers, whose selfless dedication and cohesive work led to the success of this beautiful undertaking. Their cooperation and commitment made the evening a memorable, inspiring, and uplifting experience—a testament to the community's united spirit and the eternal presence of Armenian culture.
The Hamazkayin Vancouver "Varag" Chapter concluded its 44th-anniversary celebration with new vigor and determination to continue educating the younger generations, so that the voice of our culture and art may never be silenced and may, indeed, resonate from age to age.
Deeply impressed by the event, heartfelt donations were made to the chapter, after which a lavish reception took place.
At the conclusion of the event, Raffi Chapanian, chairperson of the board, delivered a speech of thanks and, together with vice-chairperson Azo Movsisyan, distributed gifts.
