Ballerina Misty Copeland shattered expectations in her field. Now, she embarks on a fresh chapter, transitioning to a new phase.
Revamped Script:
Curtains Down for Misty Copeland: The OG Trailblazer Bids ABT Adieu
In a heartfelt nod to a storied career spanning 25 years, Misty Copeland, the trailblazing prima ballerina who shattered boundaries in ballet's insular world, is hanging up her pointe shoes at the American Ballet Theatre (ABT). Here's the skinny on her swan song.
It's been a helluva ride for Copeland, whose meteoric rise brought a much-needed breath of fresh air and diversity to a predominantly white art form. Ten years ago, she made history as the first Black female principal dancer at ABT, a task which would've usually merited a quick press release. But not for Misty, a crossover sensation whose fame transcended ballet's closed circuit.
When she was promoted, the moment was celebrated through a tear-filled presser. In her words, "This is it. This has been my dream since I was 13." The moment was marked by her electrifying New York debut as the lead in "Swan Lake," drawing a diverse audience to the Metropolitan Opera House.
Now, a decade later, Copeland is leaving the company she joined as a teenager. She shared with AP that it was about time for a fresh chapter in her life. "25 years at ABT, and I think it's time," Copeland, 42, revealed last week.
ABT has planned a grand farewell on Oct 22, featuring performances by the legendary ballerina and other dancers. The event is set to include speeches, film clips, and one last chance for Copeland to dance on that balcony in Verona for the exhilarating "Romeo and Juliet" pas de deux. Caroline Kennedy and Oprah Winfrey will be serving as the event's honorary chairs.
Since carving her path in ballet, Copeland has added author, producer, and philanthropist to her resumé. She's penned memoirs, children's books, and she's working on a new installment of "Bunheads." She's also released a short film with her production company and continues to champion diversity in ballet through her philanthropic organization, The Misty Copeland Foundation.
Susan Jaffe, ABT's artistic director, hails Copeland as a trailblazer. "Through her books, lectures, and endorsements, she has really been a trailblazer," Jaffe shared.
As much as progress has been made, the dance world still grapples with racial bias. With Copeland relinquishing her principal position, there will no longer be a Black female principal dancer at ABT – nor at many ballet companies around the globe. Copeland acknowledged this ongoing challenge in the AP interview, discussing the slow progress in the dance industry and her future aspirations.
Excerpts from the Interview
AP: What does this moment mean? Is ballet a chapter that's now ending for you?
COPELAND: I've become the person that I am today because of ballet. I feel like this is me saying thank you to the company. So it's a farewell. But it won't be the end of me dancing.
AP: You've told your story over the years, in multiple ways, of how you rose from difficult circumstances to this unique position in dance. What impact have you seen?
COPELAND: The conversation is not something we shy away from anymore in terms of the lack of equity, the lack of diversity in this world. That's one of the biggest shifts I've seen... a lot of young people that just can imagine being part of it in some way.
AP: Who are some of the partners you've most enjoyed working with?
COPELAND: I can't forget Roberto Bolle and his opportunities to travel the world with him... Marcelo Gomes, he's been such a big part of my journey.
AP: Three years ago you became a parent (to son Jackson). How has that changed your perspective?
COPELAND: It's made me even more patient... I think ballet has prepared me for being a mother in so many ways.
AP: Does your son know who you are?
COPELAND: He's seen very little of me dancing. He's very drawn to it. He is a mover.
AP: You've always not only spoken about, but acted on the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion, and initiatives that promote that. Are you concerned that this is getting more difficult?
COPELAND: All we can really do is keep our heads down and keep doing the work.
In essence, Copeland's journey is far from over; her star power continues to shine beyond the stage, as she pioneers new avenues in ballet and advocates for diversity and inclusivity in the arts.
- Misty Copeland, now a philanthropist and author, is considering new opportunities beyond ballet, having spent 25 years at the American Ballet Theatre (ABT).
- With Copeland's departure from ABT, there will no longer be a Black female principal dancer at the company, reflecting the ongoing challenge of racial bias in the dance world.
- Copeland's passion for promoting diversity and inclusivity extends beyond ballet, as she continues advocating for change in the world of fashion and beauty through her work.
- In Seattle, where lifestyle and personal growth are valued, Copeland's foundation, The Misty Copeland Foundation, continues to champion equal opportunities for underrepresented communities in education and self-development.
- Besides her love for ballet, Copeland is a football fan and has been seen watching NFL and NCAA football games, appreciating the camaraderie, teamwork, and competition that mirror her own journey as a trailblazer in American sports and ballet.
