Parris Goebel is a creative force whose name is synonymous with groundbreaking choreography and jaw-dropping performances. Known for her bold, dynamic moves and unmatched creativity, Goebel has become a sought-after talent in the entertainment industry, working with global superstars like Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, and, of course, Beyoncé.
Most recently, we witnessed her unmatched choreography for the Beyoncé Bowl which garnered more than 27 million viewers. Parris firmly believes, “If dance is her language, then BOUNDLESS EXPRESSION is her conversation.”
Parris’ ability to merge culture, storytelling, and technical precision has solidified her as one of the most innovative choreographers of her generation. Whether she’s leading her Royal Family crew or creating magic for global icons, her work continues to inspire dancers and fans worldwide.
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She told Hustle and Hush, “It's essential for women to unite and support one another. We are making the earth shake and we are really changing the game. Together we are stronger.” Parris Goebel's dedication to her craft and her commitment to empowering others through dance continues to inspire audiences and performers worldwide.
Here are seven things you need to know about this trailblazing choreographer:
1.A Dance Prodigy From New Zealand
Born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Parris began dancing at a young age. Her Samoan heritage plays a significant role in her artistry, often inspiring her rhythmic and storytelling approach to choreography.
In her autobiography, Young Queen, she said, “I had this raw, original energy. And I just loved to dance... the universe would start showing me signs that this was what I was born to do.”
2.Creator of the "Polyswagg" Style
Goebel developed her own dance style called "Polyswagg," blending hip-hop fundamentals with a fierce, Pacific Island-inspired flair. This unique approach has become her signature, setting her apart in the competitive world of dance.
When chatting withElleshe said Polyswagg combines sassy woman fire with aggressive inner strength. “I guess in the dance industry women are, I think, perceived a little bit different you know. I feel like we’re always overlooked and underrated, to be honest. But, maybe that’s a reflection of how hip-hop has represented women.” She continued, “I’ve just felt like women in the hip-hop industry and the dance industry that I work in just need to kind of put themselves forward, put themselves first, not be afraid to shine and show what they’re made of and what they can offer to the world.”
3.Leader of the Royal Family Dance Crew
Parris is the founder of the internationally acclaimed Royal Family Dance Crew, based in Auckland. The crew has gained fame for its high-energy performances, winning numerous awards and dominating dance competitions worldwide. She led the group to multiple victories at the World Hip Hop Dance Championships, securing gold medals in 2011, 2012, and 2013.
4.The Visionary Behind the Beyoncé Bowl Choreography
Parris collaborated with Beyoncé to choreograph the unforgettable halftime performance at the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Houston Texans game. Her intricate moves and bold staging helped elevate the show into one of the most talked-about halftime shows in history.
Beyoncé's halftime performance during the NFL Christmas Gameday, now streaming on Netflix as the Beyoncé Bowl, drew over millions of views and united audiences nationwide with her country crossover style, despite initial mixed reception. The 12-minute show at NRG Stadium in Houston featured songs mostly from her album Cowboy Carter, which she revealed on Instagram was inspired by feelings of exclusion years prior, leading her to explore country music further.
5.Collaborator to the Stars
Goebel’s impressive resume includes choreography for Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty Show, Jennifer Lopez’s Super Bowl halftime performance, and Justin Bieber’s viral Sorry music video, which has over 3 billion views on YouTube.
“I only choose projects now that push me and that I’m going to come out of better, smarter, and stronger. I really thrive under pressure. The common thread of everything I do is that it’s uniquely challenging, whether that’s choreographing a music video or creative-directing and choreographing a show at Paris Couture Week,” she told Harper’s Bazaar.
6.Award-Winning Talent
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Parris has received multiple Primetime Emmy Award nominations for her choreography work on Rihanna's Savage X Fenty shows, winning the Outstanding Choreography award for Savage X Fenty Show: Vol. 3. It highlights her ability to create visual masterpieces that resonate with audiences and critics alike. She was also nominated for the MTV Video Music Award for Video of the Year as a director on Justin Bieber's "Sorry."
7.A Woman of Many Talents
Parris isn’t just a choreographer; she’s also a director, producer, and performer. She directed Justin Bieber’s visual album Purpose: The Movement and often takes the stage herself, showcasing her skills alongside her dancers.
Known for her dynamic choreography, Parris sees her femininity as a superpower and it drives her creations. She told Harper’s Bazaar, “We sometimes think femininity is soft, but I don’t see it like that. Women are born with strength and resilience. We’re constantly wearing a million different hats and have these unexplainable abilities that feel like superpowers. I work really hard on rewriting the narrative of what it means to be feminine. Femininity is strength and owning your sexuality in a bold and unapologetic way.”
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Featured image by Getty Images
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