Artistic Director’s Message

Dear Friends, Welcome and thank you for attending our 2023 Gala.

As you probably know, Howell Binkley and I started Parsons Dance in 1987. I’m certain that we wouldn’t have made it this far and the company wouldn’t be thriving today if it weren’t for our many friends and colleagues. We are incredibly grateful for your belief in and support of our work. I offer deep appreciation to our Board of Directors. Your devotion to dance continually energizes and inspires us.

Tonight we are honoring Denise Roberts Hurlin, CoFounding Director of Dancers Responding to AIDS. I am thrilled to recognize Denise’s dedication to the dance community and her unflappable commitment to helping artists in need.

Besides all that, she has been a special friend to me since things began in 1987 and I plucked her from The Taylor School to become a founding member of Parsons Dance. Those days were intense, with Howell and I doing the artistic and administrative work while both of us and seven dancers went on the road for strenuous domestic and international tours.

Through it all, Denise’s very presence uplifted us, and since then, I have treasured her place in my life. Her positive attitude has always been there as she went on to nurture her family, to devote countless hours to her professional community, and to reach out to her friends. I value her longstanding connection to Parsons Dance and am proud to honor her this evening.

I also want to take this opportunity to share the news that I am putting the finishing touches on a new piece that the company plans to premiere in 2024. Currently entitled The Shape of Music, the work is set to the musical group Son Lux, headed by Ryan Lott, the Oscar nominated composer of the soundtrack for Everything Everywhere All At Once. Stay tuned for updates as we move along with this exciting project!

Thank you again for joining the party and for supporting Parsons Dance. We love having you with us tonight!

Yours, David Parsons Artistic Director