Some people are destined to reach the unreachable with the talent they exude that recognizes no limit, fearless and passionate, intrigued by challenges and obstacles that only make their journey that much more meaningful. Allen and Mary Ashrafyan – the rising stars who happen to be siblings and are the "Dynamic Duo" themselves – began dancing at the mere age of five and seven, respectively, under
the direction of the renowned Armenian dancer and dance instructor of "Hayrenik" Dance Group, Mr. Shortly after, the siblings further advanced their dancing talents at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio, where they specialized in Ballroom Dance. As they were yearning to broaden their perspective on the art of dance, they decided to focus on Latin Dance and, as such, began practicing under the direction of Mr. Katrazina Kozak, who continue to play the role of the duos personal dance instructors until today. Being a perfect composition of yin and yang, Allen, the fun-loving and carefree one, is equally balanced out by Mary, the strict disciplinarian who is more technical, coming together harmoniously as one when in the act of dance. Performing across the United States, namely in New York, New Jersey, Nevada and California, the duo has acquired multiple honorary awards and achievements that have only added to their unmatched success. From 1994 to the present day, the duo has taken part in numerous performances, both nationally and internationally, and has gained creditable awards as a result. In 2004, they took home the title of World Champions of Olympics in the performing arts. In 2006, the duo officially opened the doors of the "Dynamic Duo Dance Studio" in Glendale, California. In 2007, the duo was featured on the hit reality television program, "So You Think You Can Dance," where they showcased their talents fearlessly. In the same year, they gained recognition for a uniquely expressive form of dance that pertained to the Armenian Genocide, called "Artsakh;" it was recognized by the council of Armenia and the City of Glendale as a "cultural movement of expression of the Armenian heritage in modern dance." In 2008, as a token to their appreciative community of supporters and followers, the duo debuted their first annual Dance recital at the Glendale Hilton Hotel; entitled "Versatility Dance Show," it garnered much positive feedback and praise. Also in 2008, the duo was honored with the receipt of a Certificate of Recognition given to them by Honorary Councilmember Paul Krekorian, the then representative of the 43rd District in the California State Assembly. Added to this and also in the same year, the duo was honored with a Congressional Certificate of Appreciation, awarded to them by Congressman Adam Schiff, representative of the 29th District of California. Currently, the duo continues to add to their dynamicity by spreading their passion for dance throughout their community and further ensuring the growth of dance. Ultimately, having a myriad of dance forms and genres under their belts, and at the same time being enlightened by their personal cultural upbringing, the duo strives to educate and enrich students in the performing arts by instilling the same discipline into them that they have received along the way.
