11/22/2024
Flight is very sad to learn of the passing of choreographer Patrick Parson, founder and artistic director of Ballet Creole.
Some words from Dance Ontario:
Patrick was a pillar of the African Diaspora in Toronto, a visionary leader, and a highly creative and driven individual who achieved so much throughout his life. He established Ballet Creole, a phenomenal dance company known for its artistry and cultural richness, as well as a dance school where young students were introduced to diverse dance forms and drumming traditions. Patrick was also a powerful advocate for artists of colour, using his voice to push for equity and representation.
His company was a welcoming space for dancers from different cultures, embodying inclusivity and collaboration. Patrick also shared his passion for dance and education as a teacher at York University’s dance program and in schools across Canada. Patrick danced with Flight Festival in 2022 and was a dear friend. Here he dances with Sophie Dow in ApHeart by Carol Anderson and Julia Aplin