Groups Hamazkayin Toronto has
established several groups that are organizationally part of Hamazkayin. "Cousan" Choir & music school Dedicated to the preservation of the rich heritage of the Armenian traditional religious hymns, folk music and songs. Under the direction of
Ms. Tamar Albarian a professional choirmaster, this group of over
40 young singers holds weekly rehearsals and gives two annual performances
to the public and participates in many cultural festivals. Aimed at exhibiting the artistic works (paintings, sculptures, etc.) of Canadian and international artists, and encouraging young and upcoming Canadian-Armenian artists by exhibiting their works of art and promoting their development. The gallery holds bi-monthly art exhibitions for selected works by professional artists. Exhibitions are well attended and received by the community. Revenues generated by the sale of artwork, support the artists and covers the expenses of the gallery. Additionally the gallery has a popular program of weekly workshops (art classes) for youth and adults, supervised by Mr. Sirak Melconian, a well known professional painter.
Keeping alive the massive folk dance tradition of the Armenians and representing the community effectively at multicultural festivals. This group has weekly dance workshops (dance classes), regular rehearsals and performs regularly at many events. The workshops are supervised by Mrs. Nounoush Solakian and other professional visiting choreographers.
Supporting young talented actors and directors by assisting them to develop their skills in community plays by Canadian Armenian playwrights and other translated major plays. This group performs regularly at the Hamazkayin (500 Seat) modern theatre facility. During the past few years it has had many renowned professional visiting directors and actors such as Atom Egoyan, Arsine Khanjian, Hrant Alianak, Levon Haftvan). The group also sponsors or participates in theatrical productions with other Canadian professional groups such as Theatre Passe-Muraille ( past co productions include Beast On The Moon, Crimes, Hats of Mr. Zenobe)
This well organized library (5000 books, Videos, Records, DVD’s) serves as a unique and a major resource center on topics related to Armenian culture, Arts and History. Staffed mainly by volunteers, it is open to the public 5 days a week at no charge. This library also cooperates closely with the Toronto Public Library network. The library also promotes new publications (in English, French and Armenian languages) by Canadian and Armenian authors, by organizing book reviews, book clubs, and acts as a retail outlet.
In addition to performances by the groups described above, the Hamazkayin Theatre regularly hosts performances by well known visiting artists and performing groups, and co-sponsors many cultural events, such as concerts , group exhibitions, theatrical co-productions, by renowned artists, organizes art seminars, film festivals, literary lectures and book reviews. A brief list of recent performances include the following Canadian artists:
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