Sassoun Dance Ensemble
The Sassoun Dance Ensemble was established in 2004, under the guidance of Fr. Zareh Zargarian, Vicar and Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Armenian Church.
Meet Our Leaders
Guiding the rhythm, tradition, and passion behind every performance. Get to know the dedicated individuals shaping the spirit and excellence of the Sassoun Dance Ensemble.
Assistant Director & Costume Coordinator
Sareen Avakian
Sevag Avakian
Artistic Director & Choreographer
Sassoun Dance Ensemble has performances annually, along with many other performances for various events, presenting traditional Armenian dances, as well as dances from other cultures.
Celebrating Our Journey Through Dance
Season 1 (2004/2005)
Season 2 (2005/2006)
Season 3 (2006/2007)
Season 4 (2007/2008)
Season 5 (2008/2009)
Season 6 (2009/2010)
Season 7 (2010/2011)
Season 8 (2011/2012)
Season 9 (2012/2013)
Season 10 (2013/2014)
Season 11 (2014/2015)
Season 12 (2015/2016)
Season 13 (2016/2017)
Season 14 (2017/2018)
Season 15 (2018/2019)
International Tours
From Armenia to the Americas, the ensemble has carried the spirit of Armenian dance across continents—representing culture, identity, and community on the world stage.
One Nation, One Culture Festival
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
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2010 Armenia & Karabagh
One Nation, One Culture Festival
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2017 New York, USA
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2019 Argentina & Uruguay
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2021 Australia
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2023 Washington D.C., USA
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
Sharing the Stage with the World's Best
Throughout its history, Sassoun Dance Ensemble has performed alongside some of Armenia's most celebrated singers and international artists — creating unforgettable moments for audiences around the world.
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2010 Raisa Mkrtchyan
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2012 Inga & Anush
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2013 & 2016 Silva Hakobyan
A Presence on Canada's Grandest Stages
From landmark venues to beloved national festivals, Sassoun Dance Ensemble has brought the art of Armenian dance to some of the largest and most celebrated gatherings across the country.
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2010 Armenia & Karabagh
One Nation, One Culture Festival
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2017 New York, USA
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2019 Argentina & Uruguay
Other Performances
Beyond annual and international showcases, the ensemble actively contributes to community events, collaborations, and special causes—continuing to represent Armenian identity through dance in every setting.
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Holy Trinity Church Anniversary Celebrations
A proud tradition of performing at our home church's milestone anniversary events.
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"Exile in the Cradle" Play
A moving theatrical collaboration bringing Armenian history and culture to the stage.
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Annual Carassauga Festival, Mississauga
Representing Armenian culture each year at one of Canada's largest multicultural festivals.
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Khoren Mouradian's "Harsi Bar" Music Video
The ensemble brought authenticity and grace to this Armenian music video production.
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Harout Bedrossian's "Ayo" Music Video
Dancers performed alongside renowned Armenian singer Harout Bedrossian in this production.
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Shirak Tatosian's "Aysor" Music Video
A beautiful collaboration blending Armenian dance with contemporary music.
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United Way Event
Lending their voice through movement to support this vital community fundraiser.
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AYF Winterfest
Performed at this beloved annual gathering three times over the years.
2011 · 2013 · 2015 -
UofT Hart House Theatre
Charm of Song & Dance at UofT Hart House Theatre, organized by the Academy of Serbian Dance
2011 · 2012 · 2014
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Armenia's Independence Celebrations
Celebrated Armenia's 20th, 23rd, and 26th Independence Day with pride and tradition.
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Pangea Multicultural Event
Sharing Armenian heritage on a diverse multicultural stage alongside performers from around the world.
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Ottawa Armenian Festival
Representing the Toronto community at the Armenian festival in the nation's capital.
2012 -
Lousapem Theatre's "An Unusual Day"
Collaborated with Lousapem Theatre in this special production.
May 11, 12, 2013
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Rev. Archpriest Zareh Zargarian's 20th Anniversary of Ordination
A heartfelt performance honouring the ensemble's founding guide on this milestone occasion.
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Igranka Bulgarian Festival
Represented Armenian culture at this international cultural celebration.
June 22, 2013
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Unveiling of the "Forest of Hope" Memorial
Performed at the tree planting ceremony and memorial unveiling in memory of the Armenian Genocide.
September 24, 2016