WATERTOWN, Mass.—Sayat Nova Dance Company (SNDC) of Boston, one of the leading Armenian dance companies in North America, returns to the Charles Mosesian Theatre, Arsenal Center for the Arts, with a new production on Feb. 23 and 24. “Journey Through Time” tells the story of Armenia, from pagan times to the adoption of Christianity, from struggles to preserve its culture to celebration of its independence.
With fiery dance, pounding drums, and oral recitations of ancient stories, this company is known for its powerful, yet poignant presentations. Women dance in colorful costumes, their bodies gracefully swaying in unison, reaching out to the audience, whispering “Remember,” recalling the horrors of the genocide. The Battle of Vartanantz is evoked with vibrancy and heart-pounding rhythms. The traditional woodwind instrument, the duduk, creates an ethereal tone as do the shadows giving way to light. These dances—fluid, energetic, and ultimately triumphant—speak of a nation that has persevered and thrives.
An independent, non-profit organization, now in its 27th year, Sayat Nova has traveled the world, performing throughout the United States, in Canada, and Armenia, to great popular acclaim.
“Journey Through Time” will be presented on Sat., Feb. 23, at 5 p.m., and on Sun., Feb. 24, at 4 p.m. To purchase tickets, visit www.arsenalarts.org or call the box office at (617) 923-8487, SNDC Director Apo Ashjian at (339) 222-2410, or SNDC General Manager Garen Avetissyan at (617) 930-2921. For more information about SNDC, visit www.sayatnova.com.
Located in Watertown, the Arsenal Center for the Arts is a vibrant multidisciplinary venue that houses the 380-seat Charles Mosesian Theater and a 90-seat Black Box theater. Regular offerings include gallery exhibits, art classes, and workshops for children and adults, musical concerts (from jazz to contemporary), and literary/art discussions. A fine arts and crafts retail shop, artist studios, and three resident companies (New Repertory Theatre, Watertown Children’s Theatre, and The Quilters’ Connection) share the space. For membership information and upcoming events, visit www.arsenalarts.org or call (617) 923-0100. Ten minutes from Boston, the Arsenal Center for the Arts is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located at 321 Arsenal St. with free parking.