YSU Charles Aznavour Cultural Center hosts 20th anniversary celebration

During the years of Armenia's independence, cultural life at Yerevan State University entered a new phase of development with the establishment of the YSU Charles Aznavour Cultural Center on June 6, 2006, by decision of the university's Academic Council. The center's primary mission has been to organize and enrich cultural life within the university community and to provide a platform for talented students to express themselves and develop their creative potential.

Speaking at an event dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the center's founding, YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan delivered a congratulatory address, emphasizing that the YSU Center for Culture "brings a unique spirit" to the university.

"Over the years, numerous events have been organized with the center's support and hosted here, ranging from programs held in cooperation with embassies to theatrical performances and concerts. Particularly in recent years, the center has gained new momentum through its activities, elevating the university's cultural life to a new level," Hovhannisyan said.

YSU Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, Development and Innovation Mikayel Hovhannisyan noted the importance of preserving the center as a "living, evolving organism" that brings together different generations.

The vice-rector also highlighted the contributions of the center's former director, Karine Davtyan, and its current director, Sargis Hovsepyan, to its development and continued growth.

Sargis Hovsepyan, Director of the YSU Charles Aznavour Cultural Center, underscored the importance of art in personal development. In his view, individuals who have the opportunity to express themselves through art and culture become happier and more compassionate. He also encouraged students and faculty members to put forward new ideas and initiatives to further diversify the center's activities.

The anniversary evening featured a rich cultural program.

Students of the Hamalsaranakan Theatre Studio presented a performance based on Avetik Isahakyan's work Servant Simon (artistic director: Gayane Yeghiazaryan).

The women's dance ensemble performed a choreographic piece set to Sayat-Nova's Kamancha (artistic director: Ani Haroyan).

The Cultural Center choir performed a selection of songs by Sayat-Nova and also presented Joe Dassin's famous song Champs-Élysées (conductor: Ruben Karaseferyan; artistic director: Karen Sargsyan, Honored Artist of the Republic of Armenia).

The event concluded with energetic contemporary rhythms and musical performances by YSU Band (artistic director: Artur Hakobyan).

At the end of the evening, Karine Davtyan expressed confidence that the center's mission and activities would continue to play a lasting role in university life.

The celebration once again demonstrated that the Cultural Center, with its 20-year history, remains a vital force in uniting the university community.