One-act dance performance
Medieval Images is a one-act dance performance by Rima Pipoyan, created as her diploma work, with which she graduated with excellence from the Yerevan State Institute of Theatre and Cinema in 2010. The piece received high praise from distinguished masters Vilen Galstyan and Rudolf Kharatyan. For this work, Rima conducted extensive research into Armenian medieval culture—studying archives and manuscripts in the Matenadaran, exploring medieval miniatures, spiritual songs, and liturgical music (sharakans).
The performance featured artists from the National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet, dancers, actors, and martial arts masters. It began with images of contemporary Armenia and unfolded through symbolic episodes reflecting significant events and cultural aspects of medieval Armenia.
The performance opens with the image of present-day Armenia and gradually transitions into the symbolic landscapes of the medieval world. Drawing on illuminated manuscripts, sacred chants, and historical echoes, the choreography unfolds as a journey through Armenia’s cultural memory. Dancers, actors, and martial arts performers embody scenes of faith, resilience, and transformation—revealing a living dialogue between past and present. The work becomes both homage and revival: a contemporary dance meditation on Armenia’s medieval heritage and its resonance today.
- Choreography and libretto: Rima Pipoyan
- Stage design and costums: Maryam Karbetsi
- Music: Armenian spiritual music and songs, Avet Terteryan-symphony No. 3
- Performers: Premiere cast-Syuzanna Babayan, Ara Asaturyan, Rima Pipoyan, Mariam Aslanyan, Karine Karapetyan, Mariam Karapetyan, Gor Karapetyan, Lusine Keyan, Aram Muradyan, Gurgen Saghatelyan, Harutyun Andoyan, Harutyun Khachatryan, Arman Balmanukyan
- Duration: 50 min
Rima Pipoyan 