Cross-spatial possibilities : dance heritage transmission in Gyumri

Abstract

This study explores the role that museums and heritage/cultural spaces within Gyumri, Armenia, play in the transmission of Armenian ethnographic dance intangible cultural heritage. By conducting qualitative research centring around Hrayrk Traditional Dance Group and the Gyumri Museum of National Architecture and Urban Life, the study examines how practitioner-led initiatives might expand informal educational efforts, harnessing museums and other cultural third spaces in innovative ways for the reembodiment of ethnographic dance as a central component of Armenian community life. Specific avenues could be community-led events of practice, an increased sense of belonging for practitioners, and the addition of historical/cultural context.