Hovhannes Babakhanyan, awarded actor, singer and composer celebrated his birthday at the Stars Theater in Glendale on July 2, 2017.

Archpriest Fr. Manoug Markarian and Archpriest Fr. Mampre Kesabyan represented the Primate at the event. Father Mampre presented to the honoree the Primate’s Message of Blessing and Commendation which was received by the merited actor with humility and grace. In it, His Eminence noted Babakhanyan's contributions in theater and in cinema and his valuable role in the preservation of the Armenian identity in the Diaspora.

Armenian and American singers, musicians as well as celebrities came out to wish the convey their heartfelt wishes to the actor through their performances.  

The audience was also delighted to witness the actor’s rousing performance of the play titled Commandment.