Western Diocese

Excitement reigns high for the upcoming "Introduction to The Armenian Dramatic Arts Alliance (ADAA) - Celebrating Armenian Victory and Creativity,"  to be held at the Western Diocese, 3325 North Glenoaks Boulevard, Burbank, California on Tuesday, April 27, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.  This special event is being held under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate¸ to afford the community the opportunity to learn about the mission of ADAA and to lend their support to the talented Armenian artists aspiring to succeed in their chosen profession.  "Art is another word for faith," observed  Archbishop Derderian, "God has blessed us with the gift of art.  Those who are able to create are the ones who are able to share their gifts with their fellow community members. The Diocese feels a moral responsibility to embrace young artists whose journey of life has not always been an easy one; their struggle should be supported by the community.  Through their art our faith life is reflected; their art certainly mirrors the manifold ways of our life."

The noted entertainment news reporter, Lisa Simonian  will host the program and introduce Bianca Bagatourian, President of ADAA,  and Karen Kondazian, renowned actress and Member of the ADAA Board of Directors.  Bagatourian will present an overview of ADAA and its mission.  "The  ADAA mission is to project the Armenian voice on the world stage through the dramatic arts of theatre and film; it is time our stories were told," stated Bagatourian, "we are very thankful that the Diocese is recognizing us and allowing us this opportunity to gain a foothold in the Los Angeles community."

Artists providing testimonials on their association with ADAA include Simon Levy, Fountain Theater Artistic Director,  Magda Harout, celebrated Armenian actress, Adriana Sevan, playwright and actress,  Michael Goorjian, popular actor, Terri Melkonian, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Sunset Gower Studios, and Anita Vogel, well-known FOX News Channel Los Angeles Based Correspondent.  . 

The highlight of the program will be the presentation of three theatrical scenes based on inspiring Armenian oral histories:  Scene #1 titled "March" will feature Anahid Shahrik, Angela Sarafian, Anoush NeVart,  Sila Agavale and Jeffrey Jones.  Scene # 2 titled "Deportation" will feature Anoush NeVart, Daniel Messier, and  Ludwig Manoukian.  Scene #3 titled "New World" will feature Mariam Vardanian, Marty Papazian, Shaun Duke Mekossian and Ludwig Manoukian.

The program will conclude with a finale of Festive Children's Music and Poetry led by Shahe Mankerian.

Guests will enjoy a reception with live music and traditional Armenian appetizers.  The event is generously  sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Simon and Lena Simonian. 

For further information please contact the Western Diocese at (818) 558-7474.