New York Hamazkayin’s Nor Yeraz Dance Ensemble celebrates first anniversary
As a celebration of Armenian culture and tradition, New York Hamazkayin launched the formation of the Nor Yeraz Dance Ensemble, commencing its journey on Friday, October 27, 2023.
The dancers are evenly matched, reflecting a collaborative and fun environment and a vibrant educational experience. Nor Yeraz is fortunate to have instructor Maria Bechirian, who has an impressive legacy as the daughter of the late Karnig Nercessian, the instructor of the original Yeraz Dance Group prior to his untimely passing. Bechirian feels her father’s presence during practice and is deeply moved by the thought of how happy her father would have been if he could see the next generation of young dancers continuing to learn the steps that she remembers her father teaching.
This has been an exciting year. In the one year since NY Hamazkayin Nor Yeraz was established, the group was showcased first at the Hyortik 100th anniversary gala banquet to the applause of almost 500 attendees and performed for the Saint Sarkis annual picnic, the Hovnanian School picnic, the St. Sarkis gala for Board of Trustee members and a 100th birthday party for a community member. Another accomplishment was when Tonee Marino, an independent recording artist and Nor Yeraz dancer, wrote and dedicated a song called “Hayastan,” which has gone viral, coupled with directing his video featuring the male dancers of Nor Yeraz, which also went viral.
The dancers have a unique bond with each other, as reflected when you observe them dance, not only with their learned steps but also their spirited movement. During most practices, the dancers are exhilarated and the enthusiasm is infectious, whereby they are so engrossed in the dance that they are reluctant to stop practicing. For the members of Nor Yeraz, this dance group presents a unique opportunity to connect with other Armenian youth, fostering friendships and strengthening their cultural ties.
Nor Yeraz meets every Friday at Saint Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in Douglaston, NY, a community-based partnership where the space is generously made available for practice. The dance group is managed by an impressive executive team overseeing all the administrative responsibilities, funding sources and marketing outreach. NY Hamazkayin and the NY ARF Armen Garo Gomideh have been incredibly supportive of the group in helping them achieve their goals. We appreciate their engagement in tandem with the executive members and volunteers who generously contribute their time and expertise.
Next month on November 3, Nor Yeraz will hold its first fundraising event “A Cultural Showcase” at 1:30 p.m. at St. Sarkis Church. We will highlight the talents of our dancers, including some members singing, reciting poems, playing musical instruments and displaying artwork.
As Nor Yeraz embarks on this promising journey, the group is set to become a source of cultural pride and a vibrant community asset for all its members, flourishing and representing the rich Armenian heritage through the art of dance.
The NY Hamazkayin Nor Yeraz Dance group exemplifies that culture is not only a reflection of the past but is alive and evolved for the present.
To purchase tickets for the November event, to join the dance group or for additional questions, please email at noryerazdancegroup@gmail.com.
Sireli ungerouheener Arpi yev Annette,
When I read your message about the successes of Nor Yeraz Ensemble of NY Hamazkayin, and when you said the dancers have unique bond with each other, I was so impressed, this is a huge and important step to preserve a strong Armenian culture, tradition, heritage, and brings families, committee and friends together, that’s all we need.
Thanks to the support of the dance group’s community and the families, and the ARF Armen Garo Gomideh and Hamazkayin of NY and Hyrenik weekly and Armenian weekly.
Archbishop Anoushavan Eastern Prelacy service honored