NEW YORK — The debut play “Where Is Your Groom? (Pesad Oor Eh)” II sent waves of laughter throughout the Miller Theatre at Columbia University on Sunday, March 26, where more than 500 guests enjoyed the sequel to the funny saga of America’s favorite Armenian family.
The comical and contemporary play by Taleen Babayan appealed to all generations and highlighted themes common in today’s Diasporan culture, including balancing assimilation and nationalism, and preserving one’s heritage and language in a melting-pot society.
The 20-member cast and crew, all Diasporan-Armenians who have a love for Armenian culture and the arts, took to the stage to return to their beloved roles or bring to life vibrant new ones.
“So many aspects about participating in this play were incredible,” said Raele Sabounjian, a New York City-based marketing director who played the lead role of Lara, a first-generation Armenian-American. “Pursuing a new passion for acting, bringing a talented writer’s words to life, and proudly representing my heritage made this experience a phenomenal one.”
While the original play revolved around an Armenian-American family’s quest to find their daughter a suitable partner, the sequel focuses on the overbearing nature of Armenian parents eager to plan a wedding their own way. The play satirizes traditional elements of the Armenian family and cultural life and everyone in the audience found the story appealing, meaningful and comical.
“I laughed so much I had tears running down my eyes,” said audience member Ruby Gulian. “I truly enjoyed the performance and I congratulate all of the young Armenians involved on stage and in the audience.”
