By Arevig Caprielian
Sos Sargsyan was one of the most beloved and appreciated stars of stage and screen both within and outside of Armenia. It was, therefore, most appropriate for the New York Chapter of Hamazkayin to organize a program in his memory, and to pay tribute to the extraordinary Armenian that he was. On Fri., Jan. 31, fellow Armenians gathered at the Armenian Center in Woodside to attend the program, dedicated to this prominent artist, great patriot, and civic leader.
On Fri., Jan. 31, fellow Armenians gathered at the Armenian Center in Woodside to attend the program, dedicated Sos Sargsyan.
Asdghig Sevag, the vice-chairperson of the chapter, gave opening remarks and invited Dr. Ara Caprielian to introduce the keynote speaker, Karine Kocharian, an actress and the executive producer of Voice of Armenians TV (www.voiceofarmenians.com).
The presentation began with the screening of an informative video prepared by Kocharian. The excellent montage of various interviews with Sos Sargsyan revealed his views, beliefs, raison d’être, and philosophical perceptions of life. It also highlighted his notable artistic career and, most importantly, gave the audience an opportunity to see and hear the beloved actor impart his stand on significant national issues.
The video was followed by Kocharian’s oral presentation, consisting of four parts: Sargsyan as an actor; as a person; as a patriot; and as a political activist. Having shared the stage with Sargsyan at the Sundukian Theater, Kocharian had a panoply of personal memories and first-hand experiences to share with the audience. Sargsyan’s multifaceted persona as an artist, concerned Armenian, loyal and honest friend, and dedicated member of the ARF emerged through the oral and video presentations.
It was interesting to hear Sargsyan’s commentary on the shortcomings in contemporary Armenia, his dismay at the less than stellar quality of television programs currently offered to the public, as well as his sharp criticism of the sub-standard colloquial language. Most of all, it was instructional and gratifying to see how Sargsyan endeavored to instill in the young generation patriotism and loving respect for our language. The presentation elicited a strong round of applause.
After the closing remarks, Sevag thanked Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of the St. Illuminator’s Armenian Apostolic Cathedral, for his unwavering support of Hamazkayin’s activities. She also acknowledged the presence of Dr. Dikran Kazanjian, chairman of the Regional Executive of Hamazkayin, who made the visit from Washington, D.C.
All those present lingered long after the program ended, enjoying one another’s company, and the scrumptious desserts.