Assoulis is a traditional chain folk dance from the Sassoun region of historical Western Armenia. The name comes from a contraction of two verbs: asel (to say) and lesel (to listen). As ou lis can be freely translated as “say and listen.” The dance has been widely taught by Tineke van Geel. CAUTION: The tune is catchy…and it may lead to earworms.
| Dance Name: | Armenia |
| Original Script: | Ասուլիս |
| Pronunciation: | ah-soo-LEES |
| Translation: | “say and listen” A contraction of asel “to say” and lesel “to listen” |
| Country of Origin: | Armenia |
| Region: | Sassoun (historical W. Armenia) |
| Presented in USA by:: | Tineke Van Geel |
| Year: | 1993 @ Stockton |
| Dance Type: | Non-Partner | Circle/Chain |
| Dance Category: | Village Traditional |
| Folk Status: | Historic |
| Skill Level: | Easy |
| Energy Intensity: | Moderate |
| Tune: | Assoulis |
| Time Signature: | 4/4 |
| Dancer Formation: | Open Circle |
| Hand Hold: | Pinkie hold (in W-pos) |
| Leads to: | R w/ R |
| Styling: | Light & Energetic |
| Date Taught: | 4/8/2025 |
| Teacher: | Sallie |
| Published: | April 2, 2025 |
| Updated: | April 2, 2025 |