First Time: First Ask - Allison Parssi

Allison Parssi is a Chicago based artist + DJ, who is continually reclaiming their art practice through music curation, collage, image making, writing, and sending art via snail mail. Parssi got their start as a DJ hosting a variety of day time and specialty programs at their college radio station in Rochester, NY. After trading one Great Lake for another and moving to Chicago in 2017, Parssi expanded their radio involvement by joining CHIRP Radio.

As a former Music Co-Director, recontextualizing music and bringing new voices to the airwaves drove their work. Parssi has collaborated with artists and educators throughout Chicago bringing art fairs, projects, classes, and workshops to fruition. 

In March 2023 they started Shokoufeh, a DJ night focusing on SWANA music from across genres and decades. Over the past year, they've brought this night to Sleeping Village, The California Clipper, Cafe Mustache, and other venues across the city. You can find Allison at a show many days of the week and at the lake any time of the year.

The First Time is a live lit and music series recorded at Martyrs in Chicago's North Center neighborhood. Each reader tells a true first tale, followed by any cover of the storyteller's choosing, performed by our house band, The First Time Three.

The First Time is hosted by Jenn Sodini. Production by Andy Vasoyan and Executive Producer Bobby Evers. Podcast produced by Andy Vasoyan. Recorded by Tony Baker.

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