Contrary to popular opinion I think Rihanna did a pretty good job at last week's Super Bowl. But as magnificent as the Bajan queen is, the person that visually lit up that stage — aside from the wonderful deaf performer Justina Miles — was her extraordinary Emmy-award winning choreographer Parris Goebel.
This is my Parris appreciation blog post.
Parris Goebel with Award for Outstanding Choreography for Variety Or Reality Programming for her work on Savage X Fenty Show Vol. 3. Image Source: Associated Press
No sleep!
Goebel placed on her Instagram story that she literally did not sleep for three months, while prepping to put the show together. Her hardwork definitely paid off.
We Love The Dance Community!
As years have progressed, more love has been given to our dance community and the showcasing they put on for each performance. But what helped make Rihanna's halftime show so aesthetically pleasing was the dancers. Shoutout to alllllllll of them! The synchronizing with each dancer, almost moving like they were all one person, was impeccable.
According to the choreographer, I think it was more than 200 dancers on the stage by the end of the almost 15 minute show.
The vision was executed so beautifully by the creation birthed by Parris Goebel and Rihanna, who was said to have a huge contribution as well.
Parris Had To Test Drive
According to the New Zealand native, she had to go up on the platforms herself and choreograph to make sure everything flowed well. Goebel said it was so scary and she was wondering how Rih Rih did it herself.
Who Knew Rih Rih Was Preggos?
According to Entertainment Tonight, it sounded like some of the dancers didn't even know as far as dress rehearsal Rihanna was pregnant. They thought the baggy clothes she was wearing was normal.
Parris seems to have obviously known, but did not expect her to be showing at this point. So the show was choreographed regularly, not in the thought a pregnancy reveal would be happening.
Parris' Long Star-Studded Resume
The choreographer also created a piece for a Tresemme Super Bowl Ad, which she found out was airing a few days before the show.
I am starting to understand why she had no time to sleep in the last few months, but it is absolutely incredible to witness the power of this woman.
Manifestation people!
It isn't Parris' first time around the field as she also choreographed JLO's halftime show, and that was no easy job.
She had to work with not only her dancers but Shakira's as well. However, the show turned out amazing even with the controversy that surrounded it.
The question lurked of why there was a need for two Latina headliners, when each artist could hold their own in a single halftime show.
Parris was very grateful on her Instagram throughout this entire week, thanking everyone from her father to her dancers. It was a beautiful moment and a halftime show that will be remembered forever.
Parris Goebel's resume includes choreography for all of the Savage Fenty shows on Amazon Prime as well as artists like Justin Bieber, Nicki Minaj and Janet Jackson.
Polyswagg
Goebel created a dancing technique called polyswagg, which makes her choreography so distinct the minute you see it. According to the dance genius, polyswagg is combining sassy woman fire with aggressive inner strength.
Parris Goebel will go down in history as a legend. She attacks every beat with a certain unapologetic, strong and fearless strategy.
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