‘Where Is Your Groom’ Takes Search to Philadelphia Armenians

“Thank you to the cast for such an incredible performance and for a memorable night for the whole family,” said Manoukian. “Somehow every Armenian needs to see this show.”

The group’s Philadelphia performance marked its sixth since its debut at the off-Broadway The Players Theatre in New York City in October 2013. Following its initial performance, the cast has staged the production for Armenian communities across the country, including in California, Massachusetts, Maryland and New Jersey.

“It’s always an enjoyable experience to perform ‘Where Is Your Groom? (Pesad Oor Eh)’ but even more so in Philadelphia where the effusive spirit of the audience translated to us on stage,” said Babayan. “A special thank you to St. Gregory Armenian Church and to Lucinda Stamboulian, whose initiative and efforts brought our group to Philadelphia.”

The cast and crew consist of a group of exuberant young Armenian-American professionals from the New York/New Jersey community who have a desire to share the cultural elements of being Diasporan Armenians on stage in an entertaining manner.

“Taking part in an Armenian satire with familiar undertones in Armenian culture, family and humor was so amazing,” said Scott Toppi, who played the role of Paul, a seminarian who is set up by the family’s priest to meet Lara. “For me, the enthusiasm and vitality of the Philadelphia community truly brought the feeling and emotion of the play to fruition.”

“I had a great time with the ‘Pesad Oor Eh’ family performing our play at Delaware County Community College,” said Daniella Baydar, who played the matriarch Siroun. “The Philadelphia community and St. Gregory Armenian Church were very welcoming and the reaction from the audience was great. Another successful and rewarding show!”