Annie-B Parson is the co-founder and Artistic Director of Big Dance Theater, a company known for merging dance, theater, music, and visual design that celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2021. Parson's work focuses on choreographing momentary realms––using a variety of elements such as “mood, tonality, and color” to engage the audience while releasing the need for linear structure.

From November 30–December 5, 2021, BAM in association with The Kitchen presented The Mood Room, Big Dance Theater’s latest production. Ahead of the premiere, I had the opportunity to interview Parson. Through my research into Big Dance Theater, I became particularly interested in Parson’s individual practice. I chose to focus on better understanding her artistic process and the inspirations for her craft. More than anything, I wanted to know: What has made Annie-B Parson Annie-B Parson? And, what has inspired her artistic development throughout her career?

The video interview below emerged out of email correspondence with Parson and Sara Pereira de Silva, the Executive Director of Big Dance Theater. Together, we conducted a video interview that provides an introduction to Parson’s mind and philosophies. In referencing her practice, the dialogue offers food for thought for those engaged with all mediums, sheds light on how we may all incorporate her philosophies into our daily lives, shares insight on establishing personal artistic voices, and more.