SYDNEY: During his month long stay in Sydney, Hamazkaine’s visiting performing artist from Armenia, Samvel Topalyan is conducting intensive masterclass workshop in Armenian Poetry Recital with students of Galstaun College.

Selected students from both primary and high school have had the opportunity of being able to participate in the masterclasses, which have been organised and funded by Hamazkaine Shant Chapter.

Topalyan is one of the leading members of the new generation of actors and performing artists in Armenia.  He arrived in Sydney in early June and made his first appearance as celebrity host for the Community Performing Arts Concert.  The following week saw the Australian premiere film screening of “Khatchagoghi Hishatakarene”,  which played to a packed Hoyts cinema with audiences lining the aisles. The film, in which Topalyan had a lead role, is based on the famous novel by Raffi on the memoirs of a “cross-stealer”.

The highlight of Topalyan’s visit was his rendition of “Menq”, a poetic and masterful look at Armenian history through recital, readings, song, music and dance.  His moving performance at North Sydney’s Independent Theatre on Sunday 19th June, was greeted with a long standing ovation.

Teny Aghamalian of Hamazkaine Shant Chapter said: “We are very fortunate to have such a young and dynamic individual amongst us with such a poetic and academic understanding of our language."

"Mr. Topalyan has great appeal to our youth and it is wonderful to have been able to take this opportunity to collaborate with Galstaun College in making this masterclass a success. He has certainly made an impression on our students and the community and we look forward to continuing this fruitful relationship."

Asador Shokayan, Head of Armenian Studies at Galstaun College, said: "We greatly appreciate the initiative by Hamazkaine Shant Chapter in bringing this very talented young performing artist from Armenia to our shores and for arranging the Armenian Poetry Masterclasses for Galstaun College.  It has been an enriching experience for the students and teachers involved."