Diversity and representation in the media is a frustratingly regular topic – not just within the arts but society in Aotearoa in general. Important discussions are being had about who is writing; and who or what is being written about – or more importantly, not being written about.
The latest flashpoint on this debate has been sparked by internationally acclaimed New Zealand choreographer Parris Goebel, who has received widespread acclaim for her work choreographing the dramatic runway show launching the new season of Rihanna’s fashion line Savage X Fenty Vol. 2
It is her third time choreographing for the brand, which champions inclusivity and diversity. This year, Goebel worked with Lizzo, Demi Moore, Ru Paul’s Drag Race Season 12 winner Jaida Essence Hall and Bella Hadid.
Vogue declared that ‘Parris Goebel’s energetic choreography is used to great effect, bringing energy to the proceedings from the very first scene. From the minute Goebel moves across the screen in fishnet stockings and a black bustier, you know that you’re in for a thrilling adventure.’
Her dance troupe included nine Māori and Pāsifika dancers. Instagrammer @plantationconvos pointed out that it was ‘a huge achievement not just for Aotearoa but for the entire Pacific.’ They rightly questioned why mainstream New Zealand media was so quick to put out negative stories about South Auckland but when ‘Pāsifika & Māori dancers [feature] in one of the biggest fashion shows in the world choreographed by @parrisgoebel mehhh boring (doesn’t align with our narrative we like to drive). If the NZ media doesn’t want to uncover our UNREAL achievements, then I guess we have to do it ourselves.’
Goebel also took to social media to call out the lack of coverage, telling NZ Media to ‘do better’ and stating ‘you guys are useless, we work so hard to break the cycle yet you don’t want to celebrate our wins. Celebrate our people when they break barriers.’
Internationally acclaimed choreographer Parris Goebel. Image via Instagram @parrisgoebel.
Given that the Savage X Fenty show is widely considered an international fashion beacon for creativity and positive representation, it is disappointing that two days after the performance, only TVNZ had picked up on the fact that nine Māori and Pāsifika artists from New Zealand were involved in it, followed by Stuff a day later. Goebel herself gave a rare interview on the event to RNZ. This writer cannot help but imagine the rapid headlines if choreography and dance were considered sports.
It should be acknowledged that even an event that targets inclusivity can get it wrong. There has been a backlash from the Muslim community for the use of a song that sampled Islam’s sacred hadith. Rihanna issued a statement on social media apologising for the ‘honest, yet careless mistake’, Goebel adding in her own apology that ‘the last thing I would ever want to do is disrespect anyone or religion with my art so I take this very seriously.’
This article was first published by The Big Idea NZ. Read the original article here.
