Who’s Parris Goebel: Karol G, Rihanna & Justin Bieber’s Choreographer
We analyze the career of one of the most prominent experts in the field of stage design and dance
Behind the dazzling performance of Karol G at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards 2023 lies the brilliance of Parris Goebel, an outstanding dancer and choreographer from New Zealand who has made her mark in the dance and music industry since 2009.
Goebel, the founder of The Palace Dance Studio, has led notable dance groups such as ReQuest, Sorority, Bubblegum, and The Royal Family, which has achieved the unprecedented feat of winning the World Hip Hop Championship three times in a row.
An internationally renowned choreographer, she has collaborated with an extensive list of major artists, including Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, Jennifer Lopez, Justin Bieber (do you still remember his iconic «SORRY» music clip? Parris was there), Rihanna, Ciara, Little Mix, Janet Jackson, Big Bang, 2NE1, CL, and Taeyang, among others. Her ability to breathe life into music through choreography has led to some of the most memorable and exciting performances on stage.
A highlight in Goebel’s career was her work on Rihanna’s Super Bowl halftime show. In a mesmerizing 13-minute performance, the singer from Barbados shone brightly in her highly anticipated comeback, showcasing her charismatic stage presence through a legendary repertoire of empowering anthems. Goebel’s choreography allowed the dancers to give their best in a uniformed performance that became a milestone in Super Bowl history. Notably, this wasn’t Goebel’s first time leading the halftime show; she also orchestrated the incredible performance delivered by Jennifer Lopez and Shakira in 2020.
Additionally, Goebel has crafted the choreography for each installment of Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty lingerie fashion show, earning her an Emmy Award in 2022 for her outstanding contribution to the third volume of the event. You may also recognize her name, likely seen in the closing credits of the fashion shows.
Karol G’s Performance at the Billboard Music Awards 2023
Most recently, Goebel creatively directed Karol G’s performance at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, just as she did with Karol’s iconic presentation at the 2023 VMAs. The collaboration between Goebel and the Medellín native not only highlighted their ability to blend music and movement but also tested the versatility of the Colombian artist in different performance terrains and challenges. In the VMAs, it was on a tiered stage with highly coordinated choreography, including a moment where Karol G practically sang while doing a handstand. At the BMAs, it took place in a water-filled pool — truly incredible!
The performance has been so epic (once again) that Karol G has dedicated some words to her choreographer, with whom she seems to have a very good relationship:
«MY PERFORMANCE FOR @billboard @bbmas 💖 singing QLona, Ojos Ferrari, and a little preview of my mamasita @kaliuchis’s new single ‘LABIOS MORDIDOS’ coming out on Nov 23!!!! ✨💦🤍 Thank you once again @parrisgoebel Mamiii, what a crazy experience to learn and work with you!!! Besides receiving two Billboard Awards for Latin Artist of the Year and Latin Tour of the Year!!! So many things happening… I feel like I’m on cloud nine, and I feel immensely grateful… all of this is a dream!!! 🌠🎇🎆»
With dedication and talent, Parris Goebel continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the years to come, ensuring that her legacy endures in the entertainment industry. With each step and each choreography, Goebel continues to elevate the art of dance to new heights.