SAN DIEGO, Calif.—On Oct. 19, more than 800 people attended a spectacular and unforgettable performance by the Gevorkian Dance Academy. One hundred dancers of all ages took the stage in San Diego’s first ever “Dances Under the Stars” at the Moonlight Amphitheatre in Vista, California. The mesmerizing choreography, dazzling costumes, and spirited music brought the audience into the very heart of the Armenian culture. Enchanting dances from other countries, including Russia, Georgia, Moldova, Israel, Greece, Romania, and the United States, were also performed. George Krikorian, Jr., owner of Krikorian Premiere Theatres, was the lead sponsor of this magical evening.
“Words cannot describe the beauty, grace, and energy displayed by the Gevorkian dancers. The performance made every one of us so proud to be Armenian. The Academy has shown the world that the Armenian nation is very much alive and thriving. We thank Vartan, Siranoush and Sona Gevorkian, and all the dancers and their parents, for bringing this great celebration to San Diego,” stated Harry Krikorian, chair of the organizing committee.
The Los Angeles-based Academy enjoyed two successful concert tours in 2001 and 2005, including three consecutive sold-out performances at the renowned National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet in Yerevan. In 2005, they proudly celebrated their 10th anniversary at the famous Kodak Theatre. In 2010, they celebrated their 15th anniversary at the world-famous Nokia Theatre with a live performance, where Vartan Gevorkian received a gold medal from the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Armenia. In 2013, the Gevorkian Dance Academy participated in the “My Armenia” festival in Yerevan, where they received a gold medal from the Minister of Diaspora.
The performance was generously supported by Aladdin Restaurant, John & Cynthia Andonian & Evans Tires, Richard & Ursula Avakian, Carpeteria Carpet One & Melcon Markarian, Robert & Viviane Hagopian, Homenetmen San Diego Sevan Chapter, Khoren & Kathy Kassardjian, George Krikorian, Jr., Richard & Sherry Manoogian, Vahe & Jeannette Manoushakian, John Shakarian Jewelers, Jerry Torossian, and Alan & Mireille Yaghdjian.
The event was planned with the participation and support of many Armenian organizations of San Diego, including the Armenian General Benevolent Union, Armenian Jeweler’s Association, Armenian National Committee, Armenian Relief Society, Armenian Revolutionary Federation, Armenian Catholic church community, Armenian Protestant church community, Homenetmen San Diego Sevan Chapter, Knights & Daughters of Vartan, St. John Garabed Armenian Church, Trust Fund Committee, and the Triple X Fraternity.
At the request of the sponsors and organizing committee, the net profits from “Dances Under the Stars” will support Phase One of the Bridge to the Future project, which will establish a new church campus in San Diego near Del Mar. For more information, email sjgsdtrust@gmail.com.
Congratulations