LOS ANGELES — Following the overwhelming success of its world premiere at the Greek Theatre in 2025, People of AR Cultural Foundation embarked on “Echoes of Our Ancestors 2: Heroes & Saints,” a new musical and visual experience for a second year.
The 2026 show — again created by visionary director Arman Nshanian and produced by Asko Akopyan — on September 3 celebrated the enduring spirit, faith, courage and cultural legacy of the Armenian people, highlighting the defining moments, legendary figures, and spiritual foundations of the country’s history from Noah’s Ark to the participation of present-day diaspora in just a bit over two hours on one stage nestled in the hills of Los Feliz.
A world-class symphony orchestra under acclaimed conductor Sergey Smbatyan met celebrated international musical artists (including headliner Serj Tankian of System of a Down fame). An immersive video design set the stage and the storytelling behind a mix of modern and traditional dance and ballet. The entire combined production transported audiences across centuries of Armenian civilization from its start to today, honoring the heroes whose courage defended a nation, the saints whose faith shaped its soul, artists who curated its culture and over 20 modern organizations’ participation continuing many good causes currently.
One guest (who brought her 11-year old daughter) following the show said: “I felt like this should be done again and again, to keep Armenian identity alive…especially for our youth, who could learn about our history and know where are we coming from. Thank you a thousand times for this opportunity.”
The show featured an extraordinary lineup of Armenian talent for one night only, on the same stage, with several unique collaborations, including: Serj Tankian (headliner), Arto Tuncboyaciyan, Sebu of Capital Cities, Inga & Anush Arshakyan, Isabel Bayrakdarian, Gevorg Hakobyan, Masha Mnjoyan, R-Mean, Katil Band, DJ Serjo & Vahagn M, Misho, Karnig Sarkissian, Arabo Ispiryan, Suren Arustamyan and Albert Armenakyan (Junior Eurovision 2025). In addition, the program featured choreography and dance by Ludvig Ispiryan, the Zvartnots Dance Ensemble, Haikian Choir, Arevik Children’s Choir and Sound of Children Choir.
Arman Nshanian, director, said, “Our ancestors survived, created, sacrificed and carried this world to us. Now it is our turn. One day we two will become the ancestors. The only question is what will our echo be?”
