Gohar Tutkhalyan
On May 3, 2014 the Hayreniq Cultural Committee of the Holy Trinity Armenian Church had its 8th successful Yerevan Night Dinner and Dance annual fundraising event. Over 300 Armenians from different parts of Canada and US gathered to socialize, meet new friends, have fun and support the less privileged children in Armenia.
Proceeding to the Yerevan Night event itself was the exhibition of Young Armenian Artists of Toronto, organized by Nune Zohrabian and supported by Tamara Harutyunyan, who had many students participating in this exhibition. It was very admirable to see the excitement of children presenting their artwork and knowing that they are helping their friends in Armenia. All the proceeds raised from the exhibition will go to help orphans and children in need in Armenia. Paintings and handcrafts were followed by a cocktail reception. Then the community members and guests headed to the hall, where the unforgettable night of surprises, Armenian barbeque, dance and music by DJ Hovik was waiting for them.
The program started by a surprise visit and outstanding dance performance by Canada’s ballroom Dance Champions Marina and Vadim, who came to greet their Armenian friends. Then the traditional “Erebouni Yerevan” followed, which Hayreniq members sing every year announcing the official beginning of a great night and fun and opening remarks by Grigor Shahmuradyan (MC and Hayreniq member).
While enjoying their exquisite meal (prepared by well-known caterer and Hayreniq member Nounoush Solakian) people had a chance to hear Armenian classical songs performed by Grigor Shahmuradyan and Mineh Satouryan, as well as jazz variations by saxophonist Ara Arakelyan. The crowd couldn’t wait to hit the dance floor and was invited by DJ Hovik to kick it off and rock it with mix of Armenian, Russian, and English dance music.
Another pleasant surprise was waiting for guests here – back by popular demand from last year – an amazing drum performance from Marko Bongo, a well-known drummer in all of North America, whose mastery spreads from Toronto to New York and to Las Vegas.
Everyone was enjoying themselves and socializing, enjoying their meal, dancing, and tasting Yerevan Night wine – courtesy of the Hayreniq Committee.
The event would not be possible without the support of our Parish Priest, Rev. Archpriest Fr. Zareh Zargaryan and dedicated members of Hayreniq committee – Hovhannes Petrosyan (Chair of Hayreniq Committee), Gohar Tutkhalyan, Susanna and Samvel Harutyunyan, Yana Papanyan, Vahagn and Liana Poghosyan, and Spartak Setyan. Hayreniq Committee would like to extend special Thanks to the sponsors of the event and to 3 Grand Prize Lottery prizes: David Arzumanyan (Marbleworks), Karine Haneyan (Real Estate Agent) and Arsen Dabaghian (Owner of Ani Bakery) for their generous donations and support.
Over the years, this event evolved and is now not only a kef night and a symbol of ‘’Home away from Home’’, but also a fundraising event, where 50% of all proceeds will go to Armenia to help Children in need. Yerevan Night is an unforgettable event that reminds everyone about what a night in Yerevan would be like!