Ovanes Ohanian
He made efforts to establish the “School of Cinematic Acting” (School-e Artistī-ye Cinema). After securing the cooperation of Saeed Nafisi, Abbas Masoudi, Ali Vakili, and several other prominent figures, he published an announcement on 24 Farvardin 1309 (April 14, 1930), inviting aspiring actors to register at the school’s office, located on Ala al-Dawleh Street. The first graduates of the School of Cinematic Acting were announced in Dey 1309 (December 1930–January 1931). The first course, established through Ohanian’s dedication and perseverance, was successfully completed.
Nearly four months later, a ceremony was held, attended by members of parliament, newspaper representatives, and distinguished guests. During the event, Ohanian presented the results of his efforts by organizing demonstrations of athletic exercises and theatrical performances by his students. Ohanian died in Tehran in 1961, at the age of 61, in relative obscurity. He was buried at the Doulab Cemetery, the old Armenian cemetery in Tehran.
