Doctor Alkis Raftis, President of International Dance Council, visited Armenian State Pedagogical University on April 29. At the Armenian University, he participated in the events dedicated to International Dance Day.

Alkis Raftis is well aware of the situation on the Karabakh-Azerbaijani border. He also knows that Sergeant Norayr Gasparyan, a student of the University’s Dance Division, was killed by Azerbaijani gunfire. At the guest’s proposal, the brave soldier was posthumously awarded with the title of Honoured Worker of Dance.” Besides, Gasparyan’s photo will be posted on the official website of the International Dance Council in protest of the enemy’s unlawful harassment and aggression in the Karabakh conflict zone.

“Dance is a cultural value that has accompanied us for centuries. A nation that has such culture has an unconquerable spirit. Our heroes on the frontline, who are not only protecting the borders of our homeland but also our culture and faith, are evidence of this,” said Professor Karen Gevorgyan, Head of Choreography Chair at the ASPU. He added that dance has always been and remains a symbol of unity.

Alkis Raftis confessed that he ‘feels at home’ in Armenia and always has positive emotions and feelings at the ASPU. “Many years ago, I complained while I was lecturing at the University, today I miss everything,” he said.

This was followed by the opening of Armenian branch of the International Dance Council which will be headed by Professor Karen Gevorgyan. Alkis Raftis handed over certificates to the first members of the CID Armenia, students and members of “Berd” dance ensemble, as well as diplomas to lecturers and students for completing a 150-hour course of Armenian dances.

On the occasion of the professional holiday, Karen Gevorgyan congratulated dancers, devotees of all time, thanked them for appreciating Armenian dances and passing them from generation to generation, wishing them new achievements and success.

Alina Danielyan, a lecturer at the University, presented her book entitled "Basics for Stage Dance.” In the methodological manual, she tells the history of the dance, the relationship between classical dance and this form of dance, their similarities and differences.

The author hopes that the handbook will serve as a guide and resource for beginners, students, choreographers, dance instructors, considering the need for Armenian-language textbooks on this form of dance.

The event was attended by ASPU Rector Ruben Mirzakhanyan, Secretary General of the Federation of International Dance Festivals (FIDAF), Emil Dimitrov, dancers and guests.

International Dance Day was introduced in 1982 by the International Dance Council and is celebrated yearly, on April 29. It was introduced in memory of French dancer and ballet master Jean-Georges Noverre (1727-1810).