Bustle Exclusive
The choreographer, who co-directed Abracadabra, unpacks the song’s dual meaning.
Lady Gaga was born to dance, and thanks to Parris Goebel, shes dancing better than ever.
Abracadabra, which Goebel also co-directs, is her most high-profile creative project yet.
When were in the room together and Im throwing ideas out, its never a no, Goebel says.
To give them the opportunity to be on set and dance with us is a dream come true.
I don’t think anyone’s ready.
Ill just say that much, Goebel teases.
Take me through your typical creative process.
Its always really different, but it starts with the music.
The music drives everything: the storytelling, energy, and characters that I build in my head.
What feelings or movement did the song inspire when you heard it?
Something that felt nostalgic was really important.
Theres a lot of aggression in the song, but her music always takes you somewhere else.
I love theater and things being dramatic and over the top, and Gaga lives for that.
In your eyes, what is the story of the Abracadabra video?
Theres definitely a sense of fighting for your spot.
you’re free to see a battle between two sides within Gaga.
She fights the fame sometimes.
Shes just untouchable as an artist.
Shes the queen of pop, and the way shes done her videos is like no one else.
I think this video is proving to people shes still here, stronger than ever.
Shes bringing pop back to life.
Did you look to her past videos or outfits when conceptualizing this video?
It subconsciously puts something in my head where I revert to what theyve done.
If Im joining someone in their artistic journey, its up to me to bring something fresh.
What was the rehearsal process like?
It was a dream.
Everyone in the room was so grateful to be there, even Gaga.
She wanted everyone to feel comfortable and cared for.
It was probably the most beautiful project Ive ever worked on.
What has it felt like to see her championing and sharing your workon social media?
Ive never felt so appreciated in my career, honestly.
At the end of the day, were putting in so many hours.
My bodys in pain from creating all that movement.
Shell text me every day how grateful she is.
This interview was edited and condensed for clarity.
