Today we’d like to introduce you to Abba Parrott.
Hi Abba, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up dancing—my mom owned a hair salon, and right next door was a dance studio where I first discovered my love for dance. Today, part of my own studio is actually in that same building, which feels so serendipitous and really special.
I trained at a local studio before moving to California to further my dance journey. When I came back home, I began teaching at multiple studios across the metro Atlanta area. Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to judge for many dance competitions and to learn from and work alongside some incredible teachers and choreographers.
Dance has always been my greatest passion, and I truly feel so blessed to now own my very own studio—Movement Dance Complex. We are currently in our second year, and it is honestly a dream come true. Getting to watch dancers grow up, discover who they are as both humans and artists, and know that I get to play even a small part in that journey is the most rewarding thing.
In addition to the studio, I run my own professional dance company—MVMT, The Co. I am deeply dedicated to bringing opportunities to small towns and the southside of Atlanta. We’ve produced two full-length stage shows and recently hosted our first Choreographers Showcase, which brought artists from all over to Newnan, GA to share their work. My heart behind this is making sure dancers and communities in smaller towns have access to professional-level artistry and don’t always have to travel into Atlanta (or further) to experience it.
I often think back to little Abba in second grade, stepping into that first dance class, and I know she would be so proud of where this path has led.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. Like most journeys worth taking, mine has been filled with both peaks and valleys—lots of highs, but also some really challenging lows. But isn’t that just life?
What has kept me going is knowing deep down what I wanted, staying determined, and trusting the journey. I truly believe that God has laid out this path for me, and even in the difficult seasons, He was preparing me for what was ahead. Every struggle has shaped me into the leader, teacher, and artist I am today, and I’m grateful for the lessons that came with them.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am the owner and Artistic Director of Movement Dance Complex, a dance studio in Sharpsburg, Georgia, where we’re dedicated not only to training dancers but also to making sure every student feels seen, loved, and valued. In addition, I serve as the Creative Director for MVMT, The Co., my professional dance company that produces full-length stage shows and performance opportunities right here on the southside of Atlanta.
Beyond my own studio and company, I also choreograph for other studios across Georgia. I love connecting with fellow studio owners and dance friends because, while the dance world can sometimes feel overly competitive, I really believe in creating a different kind of culture—one where we celebrate one another’s successes and cheer each other on.
What I’m most proud of is the community we’ve built. Whether it’s the young dancers discovering who they are in our studio or professional artists sharing their work through MVMT, I’m passionate about creating spaces where artistry, collaboration, and encouragement are at the center. I think what sets me apart is that I see dance not just as training, but as a way to truly build people up—on the stage, in the studio, and in life.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to trust your journey. It’s so easy to compare yourself to others, but everyone’s path looks different for a reason. I’ve had to remind myself that where I am is exactly where I’m meant to be, and that God’s timing is always better than mine.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mvmtdancecomplex.com
- Instagram: ababparrott_dance
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560485190804
Image Credits
McKeeby Photography
