Parmida Ziaei is an Iranian multidisciplinary artist based in Seattle. Parmida’s work is often informed by her dual identities as an Iranian immigrant, and is inspired by her background in architecture and theatre. As a performer, Parmida often brings together the intricacy and elegance of her Classical Persian dance background and the freedom of contemporary movement to create a unique movement style that is a representation of her merging identities. In her teaching and choreography work, she is interested in dance as a powerful form of resistance, and exploring how each person’s body embodies movement informed by their experiences to tell a story and express emotions. As a designer, Parmida has designed various interior, architectural, immersive and entertainment spaces and has been a scenic and production designer with many Seattle theatres. Parmida is the co-founder of Seda Iranian Theatre Ensemble.