On July 22, the participants of the master classes for Diaspora Armenian choirmasters, dance instructors and dance group directors (part of the “Diaspora” Summer School Program of the RA Ministry of Diaspora) met with President of the Vanush Khanamiryan National Dance Art Union of Armenia Gagik Mkhitaryan at the Cultural Center of Yerevan State University. In the beginning, Mkhitaryan introduced the participants to the Union’s history, as well as its activities and achievements.

Attaching importance to the “Diaspora” Summer School Program of the RA Ministry of Diaspora, Mkhitaryan mentioned the following: “I believe such meetings can be considered general methodical discussions during which I will try to give you professional advice and share my personal experiences. Know that Armenian national dances have always been a part of the Armenian nation! By teaching the young Armenians of your respective communities how to perform Armenian dances, you will help them learn and preserve their identity through dance as well. Continue to carry out your pro-national activities!”

The participants of the program were also introduced to the terms and conditions for becoming a member of the National Dance Art Union of Armenia, and many participants said they would like to join the Union.

Gagik Mkhitaryan also answered questions from the Diaspora Armenian choirmasters, dance instructors and dance group directors and listened to their suggestions.

Several issues related to joint projects and new collaborations were discussed during the meeting.