On March 25, 2025, in commemoration of the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the musical Musa Dagh was performed at the National Theatre. It was organized by Artin Diramerian, with music composed by Ember Peter. The lead role of Gabriel Bagradian was played by Toth Andreas, while Kovach Olga portrayed Juliette. The narrator was Csizmadia Gabriella. The Havq dance group, led by Sima Ohanyan, also took part in the theatrical performance.

The play depicted how the Armenians of Musa Dagh fortified themselves on the mountain under the leadership of Gabriel Bagradian in an act of self-defense. It also portrayed the relationship between Juliette and a young Greek man, who left her behind and went to Aleppo. His betrayal was later revealed, followed by the depiction of Stephan’s murder and Gabriel Bagradian’s tragedy.

At the conclusion of the performance, the audience expressed their appreciation with prolonged applause and deep emotion.

Article written by Flora Hambardzumyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879

Photos by Flora Hambardzumyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879

On March 21, an evening dedicated to the renowned Armenian writers Avetik Isahakyan and Vahan Teryan took place at the Armenian Cultural Center. The date was not chosen by chance, as March 21 is World Poetry Day. The great writers were selected based on the fact that this year marks the 150th anniversary of Avetik Isahakyan and the 140th anniversary of Vahan Teryan.

The literary evening was organized by two volunteers from the Armenian Cultural Fund—Flora Hambardzumyan and Shogher Manukyan. The event featured presentations on the literary contributions of Avetik Isahakyan and Vahan Teryan, highlighting their significance in Armenian literature. Films about both writers were screened.

Poems by Avetik Isahakyan and Vahan Teryan were recited by Miklós Soros, Flora Hambardzumyan, Argine Margaryan, Anzhela Matevosyan, and Libor Laura. Additionally, songs with lyrics written by Avetik Isahakyan and Vahan Teryan were performed by Ara Ghazaryan, Anzhela Matevosyan, and Movses Ayaryan, accompanied by Shogher Manukyan (cello), Irena Martirosyan (piano), and Movses Ayaryan (guitar).

The event brought together Armenians living in Hungary to celebrate the works of Avetik Isahakyan and Vahan Teryan.

Article written by Flora Hambardzumyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879

Photos by Flora Hambardzumyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879

On February 26, in the city of Balatonalmádi, Hungary, a sister city agreement was signed between Sevan and Balatonalmádi, marking the beginning of cultural and economic cooperation between the two cities.

The agreement was signed by Balatonalmádi Mayor László Berényi and Deputy Mayor of Sevan, Gegharkunik Province, Arman Harutyunyan. The meeting was attended by Armenian Ambassador to Hungary Ashot Smbatyan, Armenian National Self-Government Spokesperson Nikogos Akopyan, President of the Armenian National Self-Government of Hungary István Czárán, and Honorary Consul of Armenia in Hungary Dr. Géza Abkarovics. The parties discussed a wide range of opportunities related to cooperation between Sevan and Balatonalmádi based on the signed agreement.

The selection of these two cities for the agreement was no coincidence. Months prior, during a meeting between Armenian Ambassador Ashot Smbatyan and Balatonalmádi Mayor László Berényi, the possibility of cooperation with the city of Sevan was discussed, considering their geographical location and similarities. Balatonalmádi, situated on the shores of Lake Balaton, shares geographical characteristics with Sevan, which is also located by its namesake lake.

The signing of this agreement is a significant event, serving as the first of its kind in the developing relations between Armenia and Hungary.

Article written by: Shogher Manukyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879

Photos uploaded: Shogher Manukyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879