What does it really mean to “do the work”? In this wildly thoughtful and hilarious conversation, producer and social justice advocate Darren Biggart unpacks his viral essay on the quiet, lifelong practice of disrupting internalized systems of power. Together, we explore the murky territory between growth and guilt, comfort and courage, and being seen as “good” versus actually doing good.
Bio: Darren is the Director of Civic Programs at The Shed, where he develops artistic work, social impact initiatives and public programs. Producer: Four seasons of Encores! Off Center, the gala production of Evita, Diary of a Tap Dancer, v. 6, and 40 unique pop-up events for The Lobby Project at New York City Center, where he also co-founded an internship for early-career artists; Ayodele Casel’s While I Have the Floor (Spoleto Arts Festival); To Feel a Thing (Holland Festival, NY Live Arts, The Shed). Founding Program Director: A Broader Way Foundation, an arts-centered leadership program for middle school girls. Assistant Vocal Producer: West Side Story film, dir. Stephen Spielberg; Kimberly Akimbo cast album. Co-Director: Idina Menzel’s World Tour (2017). Director/facilitator: YoungArts, Pace University, Harvard University, & Plymouth State University. Co-founder: tall poPpy, inc, an artist-led social enterprise that develops performance work, educational & advocacy programs, alongside Jeanine Tesori and Torya Beard. M.Ed: Harvard University (Leadership in Education Award Recipient); BFA: University of Michigan.
Darren’s Social Media: @LBCNU, www.DarrenBiggart.com
Follow along at @IntoTheMudPodcast on all platforms!
For the visual version, follow along on YouTube!
Your Hosts: Alex Kumin (@Alex.Kumin) and Drew King (@DrewKingNYC). Audio mixed by Sarah Webb (@SWAudioPost). Filmed and recorded in the Barrow Lounge at @TheMalin West Village.
www.IntoTheMudPodcast.com
