Gershwin & Bess: A Dialogue with Anne Brown In 2004 at her home in Oslo, Norway, soprano Anne Wiggins Brown sat down with tenor Dr. William A. Brown (no relation) of the Center Black Music Research for an on-the-record conversation about originating the iconic role of “Bess” in the opera Porgy and Bess with famed composer George Gershwin. Revealed are little known facts about what is arguably the most popular American opera touring to date. Details of the opera’s inception and the cast as well as Ms. Brown’s controversial run-ins with discrimination offer an illuminating historical account. This was one of Ms. Brown’s final interviews. Filmed through the talented lensing of Director of Photography Henry Adebonojo, this lively and engaging conversation covers musicianship, self-reliance, race and beauty. In a rare conversation between Anne Brown and Dr. Brown, Ms. Brown provides the following: A detailed account of her work with George Gershwin Timeless anecdotes on the role singers play in creative collaborations An accurate account of the events surrounding a proposed boycott from the Porgy and Bess cast during its run at The National Theatre A revealing narrative that addresses her decision to direct European productions of Porgy and Bess in “blackface” * A reflection on the painful decision to end her singing career