FORMIDABLE ! AZNAVOUR

THE STORY OF A LEGEND

The creators of the mega-hit “Piaf! The Show” return with FORMIDABLE! Anzavour, the story of Charles Aznavour and his exceptional worldwide career, celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the singer who personified post-war Parisian Bohemia.

Far more than a tribute, this musical performance is an emotional journey through the life and extraordinary career of Charles Aznavour. Starring the internationally acclaimed Jules Grison, FORMIDABLE! Anzavour is a heartfelt ode to the legendary artist, who left an indelible mark on music history, whose voice still resonates with intensity, and who continues to touch hearts and inspire new generations of admirers.

An inaudible voice and a difficult physique,” that’s how ruthless critics tried to disparage Charles Aznavour’s early career, but the audiences were never wrong. Success after success, the public’s unfailing support brought him to the top of the bill. While on the road to fame, Aznavour became friends with Charles Trenet and Edith Piaf, who took him to the United States before performing in Montreal. 

A keen interpreter of love, an author of more than 800 songs, Aznavour’s legacy spans worldwide. From Ray Charles to Fred Astaire and Shirley Bassey to Bing Crosby, great American artists covered his hits, giving them international fame.

*The duration of the show is 90 minutes without intermission.

https://cherryorchardfestival.org/2026_formidable_aznavour

I’m thrilled to share a deeply personal project I’m working on in my 2025 SFFILM FilmHouse Residency — and invite you to help make it happen.

I’m directing and producing a full-length documentary called The Dragon Under Our Feet, that follows my journey as a Bay Area artist reconnecting with my Armenian heritage through the art of traditional carpet weaving. What began as an exploration of ancient symbols has grown into a story about identity, resilience, and the fight to preserve culture.

In the film, I create a contemporary stained glass work inspired by centuries-old Armenian carpet motifs — especially the dragon (vishap). Along the way, I meet weavers, elders, and historians in both California and Armenia, from refugee women in Goris weaving to support their families, to museum directors saving rare rugs from war. With these cultural experts as my guide, we uncover the stories these carpets carry — and the questions they raise about heritage, connection, and survival.

We’ve launched a crowdfunding campaign to directly support filming in Armenia this September. Donations are tax-deductible. You can help by contributing or sharing the campaign with your community. Every gesture moves us closer to preserving and sharing these stories.

https://seedandspark.com/fund/the-dragon-under-our-feet#story

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