The Armenian Treasures Foundation, eleve11 and Kirkor Ajderhanyan plan to create short drama series inspired by Armenian history, mythology and epic poetry.
First smoke rises from the hollow of a reed, then flame. Out of the flame runs a fair-haired youth. This is how Vahagn is born in the ancient song recorded by Movses Khorenatsi. In just a few lines, you can already see the scene. What might it look like on screen?
The Armenian Treasures Historical and Cultural Foundation, eleve11 and French-Armenian businessman Kirkor Ajderhanyan are preparing to adapt this and other stories from Armenian heritage for the screen. The series are intended for audiences in Armenia and the diaspora, as well as anyone curious about Armenian culture.
Armenian stories in five to six minutes
Each story will run for five to six minutes and will be filmed in a vertical format for viewing on a phone. Subjects under discussion include episodes from the reign of Tigranes the Great, the meeting of Artashes and Satenik, the birth of Vahagn and the feats of David of Sassoun. These are just a few of the stories from Armenian history and oral tradition that may inspire future scripts.
From historical sources to the screen
Work on each script will begin with the original sources. Historians and heritage specialists will help the writers explore what the chroniclers recorded and how portrayals of the same hero changed in folk narratives.
Under the preliminary plan, the partners aim to release the first 100 series within eight months of securing funding. Voice-overs and subtitles in several languages are planned so that viewers just beginning to learn Armenian can enjoy the stories too.
Watch the 3D reconstruction of Artashat on Instagram
Perhaps a child growing up in France will first meet David of Sassoun in one of these short films. Afterwards, they might ask a grandparent, “Who first told you about David?” It is in family conversations like these that we hope the stories will continue beyond the screen.