The Interview Misty Copeland Changed Ballet. Now She's Ready to Move On.
Jun 7, 2025
Misty Copeland, the first Black female principal dancer at the American Ballet Theater, opens up about her groundbreaking career and her decision to retire after 25 years. She reflects on the struggles for diversity and inclusion in ballet, sharing personal stories about identity and perception. Misty discusses the emotional complexities of leaving the stage and the transition to motherhood, highlighting the importance of representation in the arts. Her journey showcases the transformative power of dance and explores the evolving landscape of ballet.
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Finding Fulfillment in Swan Lake
- Misty Copeland felt fulfillment in 2019, believing she had done everything she could on stage.
- She had a liberating last performance of Swan Lake, letting go of critics' opinions and pressure.
Legacy Beyond Personal Glory
- Misty sees her legacy as opening doors for Black and brown dancers, emphasizing representation over individual glory.
- True change requires access and nurturing environments, beyond symbolic milestone achievers.
Embrace Diverse Ballet Bodies
- Choreographers should open their minds to diverse body types to unlock new creative possibilities.
- Preconceptions about Black dancers’ bodies limit innovation; challenging norms can enhance choreography.
