Dance History
A Journey Through Armenian Culture and Tradition The Hamazkaine Armenian Sydney Dance Ensemble (ASDC) was established in July 2000 through the unification of the Sasoon Dance Group of the Hamazkaine Shant Chapter and the Nairi Dance Group of the Hamazkaine Ararat and Nairi Chapter.
Bringing together passionate young Armenians, the ensemble was founded with a shared vision of preserving and celebrating the traditional dances of their ancestors. Since its establishment, ASDC has welcomed dancers from as young as four years old, providing opportunities to learn, perform and connect with their Armenian heritage.
Through annual concerts, cultural celebrations and international performances, the ensemble has continued to share the beauty of Armenian music and dance with audiences across generations.
Our Journey: 2000–2025
2000 - The Beginning ASDC was officially established in July, marking the beginning of a united Armenian dance ensemble in
Sydney.
2001 – Debut Performance In October, ASDC held its debut concert at the Hills Centre in Castle Hill, featuring guest
instructors from Armenia, Albert Kiziryan and Jasmine Avedisyan. 2002 – Annual Concert The ensemble returned to the Hills Centre in Castle Hill, continuing to showcase traditional Armenian dance.
2003 – Celebrating Armenian Music At NIDA, ASDC commemorated the 100th anniversary of renowned Armenian composer Aram Khatchadourian's birth. The performance featured the Armenian String Ensemble, the Hamazkaine Arshak and Sophie Galstaun College Nanor Choir, and guest instructor Hrachya Badalyan.
2004 – Honouring Armenian Heritage The Hamazkaine Sevan Chapter joined ASDC. A performance at NIDA honoured the
Armenian Genocide and celebrated the 1600th anniversary of the Armenian Alphabet.
2005 – Continuing the Tradition ASDC returned to NIDA for another performance celebrating Armenian music, dance and
cultural heritage.
2007 – A Celebration of Traditional Music At the Hills Centre in Castle Hill, ASDC performed alongside esteemed local and international musicians, including folk bands from Armenia. Audiences enjoyed traditional Armenian instruments such as the duduk, kanoon, zurna and dhol.
2008 – Performing in Armenia A significant milestone saw 32 dancers from ASDC's adult group perform at the prestigious
Yerevan Opera House in Armenia. The performances received media coverage in both Armenia and Australia. The ensemble also performed at the Hills Centre, with special guest instructor Petros Gharibian.
2009 – A Diverse Cultural Showcase At NIDA, ASDC presented a vibrant combination of traditional Armenian folk dances,
modern routines, instrumental solos, vocal performances and highlights from previous concerts.
2025 – Celebrating 25 Years of ASDC In 2025, the Hamazkaine Armenian Sydney Dance Ensemble proudly celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a remarkable milestone of cultural preservation, dedication and artistic achievement. This special
anniversary honoured the generations of dancers, instructors, choreographers, volunteers, families and supporters who have contributed to the ensemble's journey since 2000.
For a quarter of a century, ASDC has remained a symbol of Armenian cultural pride, bringing communities together through the beauty of traditional music and dance. As the ensemble continues beyond this significant milestone, its commitment
remains stronger than ever: to inspire future generations, preserve Armenian heritage and ensure that the traditions of its
ancestors continue to thrive in Australia.
Our Culture. Our People. Our Dance.
