February 14, 2022

Why the Savage x Fenty show was a win for Kiwi diversity

On the global stage, Rhianna brought her latest collection for Savage x Fenty to life with the help of Kiwi choreographer Parris Goebel. But behind the amazing lingerie and moves was something more being projected to the world; some truely talented Kiwi women from all walks of life.

The runway event, Goebels second round choreographing one of Rhianna’s shows, launch the new season range in Rihanna’s fashion line, which has launched on Amazon Prime Video. For the film Goebel choreographed moves for celebrities and performers including Erika Jayne, Lizzo, Bella Hadid, and many more. Yet looking past our usual celebs cameos and you’ll see the Kiwi women Goebel brought to the world stage with her.

There were nine New Zealand dancers of Māori and Polynesian decent, with Goebel herself being of Samoan, Chinese, and Scottish descent. The youngest of which was 18.

Goebel is the creative director of the Royal Family Dance Crew, it’s current members include:

1.Kirsten Dodgen

2. Kaea Pearce

3. Corbyn Taulealea-Huch

4. Kyra Aoake

5. Ruthy Pearce

6. Ling Zhang

7. Isla Potini

8. Teesha Siale

9. Harmony Kiripatea

10. Pearl Tekuru

11. Isabella Thomas-Edwards

12. Brianna Hamilton

13. Azaria Ieriko

14. Tyra Berryman

15. Renee Salesa

16. Sarah Whyte

Although the whole crew were not at the show, these dancers from New Zealand brought with them a message of hope for those with strong ties to our lands, that you can still dream big and achieve your goals and keep your heart at home. These dancers under Goebel no doubt worked harder than others, travelling across the globe to make themselves seen and heard – no doubt showing future generations that no matter the size of the country you live in, its about the size of the effort you put in.

The show was also widely praised for its inclusivity, with performers from across the spectrum of races, body types, and genders represented, as well as its positive approach to female sexuality. Yet there is still a need for us to shine the light on the achievements of Māori and Pasifika, as margnalised groups they have often had to work twice as hard for half the recognition.

Goebel has become a household name, and her achievements are amplified by her willingness to bring other women and marginalised groups up the ladder with her.