Noah Parets to Perform for Elton John
By Caroline Dickie
On May 9, 2026, Second Soloist Noah Parets joins an illustrious group of artists at the 15th Glenn Gould Prize Gala in Toronto honouring Sir Elton John, recipient of the Glenn Gould Prize for lifetime contribution to the arts. Canadian luminaries such as Sarah McLachlan, Diana Krall and Ron Sexsmith will perform a musical tribute, with Noah dancing a piece he created to Electricity from Billy Elliot the Musical, the production he starred in at 13 years old and for which Elton John composed the music. We asked Noah for all the details.
How did this incredible opportunity come about?
I was connected to this opportunity through my former ballet teacher and now Principal of Canada’s National Ballet School, Margaret Tracey. She found out that the Glenn Gould Foundation was looking for a male dancer to honour Elton John because of his involvement with Billy Elliot. She connected me with the Foundation!
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Noah Parets in Billy Elliot the Musical. Photo by Amy Boyle.
How did you get involved with Billy Elliot and what do you love about that show?
I first saw Billy Elliot on Broadway when I was 11 years old with my mom. I remember her turning to me after the show and telling me that she thought I could do it. Soon enough, I was at an open audition for the role of Billy Elliot and joining the North American tour of the production. I performed that role over 100 times in cities all across the US and Canada. Portraying Billy Elliot is an unforgettable journey, living the life of a boy who needs to dance despite all the odds against him.
Could you describe the new work that you're creating for Elton John?
I am creating a solo for myself set to Electricity from Billy Elliot. In the musical, this song is the climax of Billy’s story, where he realizes that dance allows him to feel completely himself. Performing to this song again after more than a decade is a beautiful, full circle moment for me. I am looking forward to paying homage to the original story while showcasing the dancer I am now.
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Noah Parets in Billy Elliot the Musical. Photo by Amy Boyle.
Is choreography something you'd like to do more of?
Yes! It is always something that has interested me and it has been fun to try out some ideas while making this piece.
How are you feeling about joining such a stellar lineup to perform for Elton John?
It is absolutely surreal to be joining such a lineup. They are all musical powerhouses and to share the stage with them is wild. Of course, performing for Elton John is beyond unbelievable!
If you could ask Elton John anything, what would it be?
What has inspired you to create music? Has it changed over time and why do you think it has resonated with so many?
Top Photo: Noah Parets in Billy Elliot the Musical. Photo by Amy Boyle.