“Lights! Camera! Saroyan!” Documentary Has World Premiere at Fresno State and Attracts More Than 400

Annie Rubio

Editor

William Saroyan has long been a prominent figure in Fresno’s history. Recently, his name has become even more pronounced in the community. Ever since the opening of the Saroyan House Museum in August of 2018, there has been a resurgence of interest in his life and career. This led to the premiere of the new documentary, “Lights! Camera! Saroyan!”, which took place at the Satellite Student Union on Friday, January 25, with more than 400 people in attendance. The premiere was cosponsored by the Armenian Studies Program and the William Saroyan House Museum.

Directed by Harut Shatyan and produced by Ara Baghdasaryan, “Lights! Camera! Saroyan!” examines how Saroyan’s cultural roots and life in Fresno influenced his career. Shatyan studied at the Yerevan State Institute of Theatre and Cinema, and has directed several feature films. “Lights! Camera! Saroyan!” was created by the Yerevan-based Film Factory Production. While the film holds special significance for Armenians, it also allows the world to experience and understand Saroyan’s life. In the words of Film Factory, “this is not just for Armenians, but for everyone.”

Berberian Coordinator of Armenian Studies Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian welcomed the audience and gave the opening remarks. Prof. Der Mugrdechian is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Saroyan House Museum, and has been involved with the project in a variety of capacities.

Prof. Der Mugrdechian introduced KSEE24 anchor Stefani Booroojian, who has been covering the Saroyan House Museum project from its inception. She described her first experience with the Renaissance Cultural and Intellectual Foundation while on a visit to Yerevan. It was there that she first heard about the plans for the Saroyan House Museum. She recalled being shocked, asking “Have they seen that house? Did they know what they were getting into?” 

Booroojian, together with everyone who has visited the House Museum, has been amazed by the transformation that has taken place in Saroyan’s old residence. Booroojian presented special footage of the Museum’s development, showing how the Foundation gave new life to the home and created technological innovations for everyone to enjoy. 

It was a chance for the audience to see just how much work the Foundation has invested into the development of the House Museum. The Museum has created more awareness of Saroyan’s achievements, which were highlighted in “Lights! Camera! Saroyan!”. 

The film itself brought together elements of Saroyan’s life and commentary from family and friends, giving new life to his works. Overall the documentary followed the arc of Saroyan’s career from his first publication through his fame as an author.

The interviews provided historical background and insight into Saroyan’s career, and also added the cultural dimension of his Armenian roots. Dr. Dickran Kouymjian, Berberian Chair of Armenian Studies, Emeritus, was one of the commentators in the film. 

He expressed his sincere hope that the documentary and Artur Janibekyan’s ideas would live up to the name of a “renaissance.” 

“Or, at least, it should start one,” he added. Dr. Kouymjian, who knew Saroyan well, was featured in many parts of the documentary.

Bringing a more personal note to the documentary were interviews with Hank Saroyan and Charles Janigian. Hank, William Saroyan’s nephew, recounted humorous interactions between he and his uncle. Particularly moving were the stories of William Saroyan’s connection to children and how his literary world was filled with children.

Saroyan’s cousin Charles Janigian was also featured in the documentary, providing more stories that focused on William Saroyan the person.

Janibekyan’s team at the Renaissance Cultural and Intellectual Foundation have indeed sparked a renaissance of Saroyan. 

Their efforts have inspired countless others to appreciate the William Saroyan’s life and works. 

The Renaissance Foundation continues to support Saroyan’s legacy and is devoted to finding new ways to create interactive exhibits for the Museum. Prof. Der Mugrdechian revealed some of their initiatives, including adding an additional hologram, and expanded digital archive, and even offering Saroyan-themed souvenirs. 

Also in the works is the development of a Saroyan interview space, where visitors can record their own interactions with the famous author.

The Saroyan House Museum is giving the community an opportunity to support Saroyan’s legacy, through their newly developed membership system. Membership fees directly support the Saroyan House Museum, allowing it to continue its work promoting the legacy of William Saroyan. 

Membership information can be found online at saroyanhouse.com. 

The Saroyan House Museum is open Thursday-Saturdays, but online reservations are required.