Born in the vibrant city of Cairo, Gerald Papasian is the proud offspring of Armenian parents, hailing from a family of great musical significance, which established the first and largest music stores in the Near East during the 20th century.
This cosmopolitan and multilingual artist has made Paris his home, where he has founded the esteemed Dikran Tchouhadjian Institute, a testament to his dedication to the arts.
In addition to his illustrious acting career, which has taken him around the world, Gerald has also ventured into production and direction, having overseen numerous projects in both English and French.
One of his most notable accomplishments is his own translation of the Western Premiere of the Opera Anoush, which was presented at the prestigious Michigan Opera Theater.
Gerald Papasian has gained widespread recognition for his extensive international touring endeavors, which have been undertaken in tandem with his esteemed stage partner, Nora Armani, within the framework of their multiple award-winning play, Sojourn at Ararat. This critically acclaimed production has garnered the Drama-Logue Critics' Awards on not one, but two separate occasions, with the accolades being bestowed upon the duo in the years 1987 and 1988.
Throughout their illustrious career, Papasian and Armani have had the privilege of performing their captivating play at some of the world's most prestigious and renowned venues. These esteemed establishments include, but are by no means limited to, the Edinburgh & Avignon International Festivals, The Smithsonian Institute, The Sydney Opera House, and Joe's Pub at the Public Theater in New York City, to name just a few.
Papasian's remarkable career boasts an impressive array of productions, showcasing his versatility and artistic range. One such notable achievement is his work on the play "Dentiste Pour Dames" at the esteemed Déjazet Theater in Paris. This production demonstrated his ability to excel in a variety of settings and genres.
Furthermore, Papasian's opera credits are equally impressive, with a notable restoration collaboration on "Arshak II" alongside Haig Avakian. The opera was subsequently staged at the prestigious San Francisco Opera by the acclaimed director Francesca Zambello.
In addition, Papasian played a crucial role in bringing the opera-bouffe "Gariné" to the French stage for its premiere. This significant production solidified his position as a respected and accomplished artist in the world of opera.
Internationally renowned thespian has had the privilege of working under the esteemed direction of Irina Brook, bringing to life iconic roles in a diverse range of productions.
One such notable performance was in the critically acclaimed adaptation of Bertolt Brecht's "The Good Person of Szechuan", where he showcased his exceptional acting prowess.
He has also had the opportunity to tread the boards in "Waiting for the Dream", a thought-provoking production that pushed the boundaries of the human experience.
Furthermore, his unforgettable portrayal of Sancho Panza in "Somewhere La Mancha" earned him a nomination for Best Actor, a testament to his remarkable talent and dedication to his craft.
His impressive body of work is a testament to his unwavering passion for the art of acting, and his ability to bring characters to life in a way that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Notable beyond his theatrical endeavors, Papasian has also ventured into the realm of cinematic and television productions, making appearances in a diverse array of films and shows. Some of his notable on-screen credits include the 1997 comedy film Nervous Ticks, which starred the talented Bill Pullman, as well as the French productions Mauvais Joueurs and Aram, both of which featured the accomplished Simon Abkarian. Additionally, Papasian has appeared alongside the captivating Aïssa Maïga in the film Quand La Ville Mord, and has shared the screen with Nicolas Alberny and Jean Mach in the 2013 film 8th Wonderland. His extensive filmography also includes roles in Le piano, which featured the renowned Levon Minassian, Mohamed Dubois, a film that starred the talented Eric Judor, Le French, a production that showcased the impressive Jean Dujardin, Histoire de fou, a film directed by the acclaimed Robert Guediguian, and OTTG, a lead role in a film that further highlights Papasian's versatility as a performer.
Notably, he has also showcased his acting prowess in the prestigious International Emmy award-winning television series, Braquo, which aired on the renowned Canal+ network, in addition to his work on ARTE, where he portrayed the pivotal role of the KGB head of bureau in the captivating drama, Au Service de La France.
Papasian holds a distinguished title as an Honorary Member of the National Theater of Armenia, a testament to his profound impact on the world of Armenian theatre. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was bestowed the esteemed Gold Medal by the Ministry of Culture of Armenia in the year 2013. This prestigious honor is a reflection of his unwavering dedication to the arts and his tireless efforts to promote Armenian culture globally.
In addition to his numerous accolades, Papasian has also received the Movses Khorenatsi Presidential Medal in 2011, a testament to his exceptional skills and achievements in the world of opera. This award is considered one of the most prestigious honors in Armenia, and Papasian's receipt of it is a testament to his status as a leading figure in the world of opera.
Throughout his illustrious career, Papasian has worked in various countries, including the United States, France, and Armenia. He has demonstrated his versatility by taking on multiple roles, including teacher, director, producer, actor, and translator. His extensive experience has enabled him to work on a wide range of operatic productions, showcasing his exceptional skills and expertise.
As a renowned expert in his field, Papasian continues to make significant contributions to the world of opera. His impressive resume and numerous accolades are a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for the arts.
