DANCING WITH OUR ROOTS: SHNORHALI STUDENTS MEET ARMENIAN DANCE ENSEMBLE
On September 14th, Shnorhali School students at St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church experienced an unprecedented and unforgettable opportunity to reconnect with their heritage in the most vibrant way – through dance. Outside the church, under the open sky, our community was honored to welcome a group of extraordinarily talented young artists from Armenia, currently touring several U.S. states under the auspices of an International Arts Fund. Their mission is profound: to bring the spirit of Armenian traditions, culture, and history to life through the power of traditional folk dance.
The dancers, despite their demanding schedule, graciously devoted precious time to meeting with our students and families. What followed was nothing short of extraordinary. With breathtaking artistry and boundless energy, they filled the courtyard with the pulse of Armenia’s soul. Their performance was not only a display of beauty, it was a reminder that dance is a living vessel of memory, identity, and resilience.
Even more inspiring, children and parents were invited to join, step by ste,p learning the traditional movements, and ultimately dancing side by side. Laughter, curiosity, and pride lit up the church courtyard as generations connected through movement.
This is a day our students and families will carry in their hearts. Beyond the joy of the moment, such opportunities instill in our children a deeper appreciation of who they are and where they come from. They remind us that Armenian culture is not only preserved. It is alive, evolving, and inspiring. Through experiences like these, our students gain more than knowledge; they inherit a legacy of strength, creativity, and belonging.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tigran Mnoyan, the ensemble’s brilliant choreographer and dance master, whose dedication and generosity made this encounter possible; to Aleksan Zakyan and the International Arts Fund for championing global cultural exchange; and above all to the fabulous young dancers who shared their extraordinary talent, energy, and love for Armenia with our students and families.
