On May 17, 2025, at the Marguerite Bourgeoys Hall of Collège Régina Assumpta, the Armenian community of Montreal gathered to enjoy the performance of the “Ani” Junior Dance Ensemble of the Hamazkayin Quebec “Sanahin” Chapter, reports the weekly Horizon. The program was titled “Spring Flowers.”
Garin Sarkisian, chairwomen of the “Ani” Dance Ensemble Committee, made opening remarks. She welcomed the audience and thanked everyone whose committed efforts made the event possible. She also expressed gratitude to all the parents for their trust and cooperation.
By turn, ten groups based on age presented Armenian village and contemporary dances. Each group (starting the the 5-year-olds) had prepared two dances. They danced the Kochari, Akabi, Tamzara, Hanina, Keghtsi, Shoror (by Gomidas), Ishkhanats, Lutki, Erzurum Shoror, Gagachner, Kogh, and Sasun dances.
It was very interesting to see the dances and colorful costumes selected to match the ages of the dancers. The youngest dancers brought a lot of joy with their little feet dancing in circular patterns. As the ages went up, the effort to learn and the progress made were quite visible. The movements were more coordinated and rhythmic, the steps enthusiastic and joyous, and the girls’ soft movements increasingly modest and becoming.
All the dancers showed joy and pride in the faces. Happiness and love were shining through. It is here the role of artistic director and instructor Levon Arabian was clearest. The director had not only taught students the dance moves, but also had awoken their love toward Armenian culture.
At the end of the event Hamazkayin Quebec “Sanahin” Chapter Executive Committee Chairperson Ruben Sarkisian congratulated the committee, which through enormous efforts brought 230 young people on stage. He thanked the army of volunteers, which included many older members of the ensemble, for their behind-the-scenes work. The evening concluded with a prayer by the prelate of the Canadian Prelacy, His Grace Archbishop Papken Charian.
It is necessary to note that the “Ani” Dance Ensemble is not solely a place to learn dance. It has a larger and more vital mission. Any time young Armenians take the stage in costume to dance to Armenian music, their thoughts and spirits are filled with Armenianess, good taste, and respect for quality and beauty. The “Ani” Ensemble guarantees the survival of the Armenian community of Montreal by preparing an army of responsible and patriotic Armenian young people.
Great work everyone!
Patil Harboyian
