An evening commemorating the 140th anniversary of Armenian poet Bedros Tourian’s death attracted a huge audience on Sunday, November 11, 2012, at 6:00 p.m., at the Nalbandian Hall of the Hamazkayin A. and S. Galstaun College, in Ingleside, Australia.
Arman Narinli delivered the opening speech. “A deep analysis of Bedros Tourian’s work — that is, an examination of the ideological sources and influences of his time period — requires specialization in literature. It is necessary to take a look at the principles adopted by the French Revolution, and interpret the political meaning of the terms Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. Bedros Tourian is one of the leading Romantic poets, whose poems are full of personal emotions and expressions of his inner world, as well as unparalleled outbursts against death,” said Narinli.
Toward the end of his speech, Narinli read a whole poem by Tourian that touched upon the themes of patriotism and national values.
Afterwards, Gayane Mouradian presented Bedros Tourian’s biography and works. Despite her very young age, she carried out the task flawlessly and recited another poem by Tourian.
Next, an artistic performance was presented featuring Kevork Mouradian on the saxophone and Lilit Mouradian on the piano. Then, Catherina Eozbegian performed a solo dance, Shahan Soghomonian played the cello, and violinist Christine Purzekian performed “Yerevan Erepouni,” accompanied by Dr. Marc Cholakian on the piano. The highlight of the evening was a solo performance by singer Zvart Smsarian, who performed “The Pond” (“Ljag”), one of Tourian’s renowned poems.
Finally, in the last part of the artistic program, Sarin Zeitounian recited “My Death” (“Im Mahe”), another poem by Tourian, followed by the reading of the poem “The Child to the Cross” (“Manugn Arr Khach”) by Krikor Manoogian. Afterwards, a play was performed, based on Arshag Chobanian’s article “Bedros Tourian’s Death” and staged by Azniv Ingilizian. The chief performer was Raffi Avedian. The teenage performers presented a genuine portrayal of Tourian’s tragic last minutes before his death.
On behalf of the Regional Committee of Hamazkayin in Australia, Arshalouys Tahmizian spoke next, highly praising this second high-quality event organized by the Literary Committee, and thanking and congratulating all those involved.
The audience left the event venue with deep emotions and in high mood, wishing the Committee all the best.
Wake up Nightingale of Sgudar (Tourian) and see how a generation of young Armenians today has inhaled the beams of your poetry — a new generation who always strives to further solidify their Armenian identity and throughout their entire life will shine with Bedros Tourian’s spiritual brightness.
Zarouhi Manoogian
14/11/2012