Our company is a lot of times derided for being accessible. But we don't have a problem with that. We actually enjoy that. Not that Parsons does not tackle big themes or ticklish social issues in some of his work. But the choreographer, who made a name for himself as a dancer with the groundbreaking American choreographer Paul Taylor before striking out on his own, is more interested in creating meaningful movement than in making grand statements on art or culture.
Parsons counters accusations of superficiality with dances of refined simplicity.
Though he avoids the trappings of elaborate sets and costumes, his pieces are undeniably theatrical. Though the effect is one of mystery and magic, it had its roots in finding a way to stretch the envelope in a practical way. If you threw a stagehand out there they would be trampled by the dancers. With the Parsons Dance Company, what you see is what you get, and what you get is exciting and dramatic even if the tricks are revealed right before your eyes. I like to connect with people.