A Career Defined by Resilience and Artistic Vision

Copeland’s path to prominence was anything but conventional. Discovered in a community dance class, she began training later than most aspiring ballerinas, facing both physical and systemic challenges. Yet, her innate talent, unwavering dedication, and a unique artistic voice propelled her forward. She joined American Ballet Theatre in 1998, steadily rising through the ranks to become the first African American woman to be appointed principal dancer in the company’s 75-year history in 2015.

“I think back to my first tour with ABT and it feels so long ago,” Copeland reflected in a recent interview. “It’s been my family for 25 years.” Her impact extends far beyond technical brilliance; she has become a powerful advocate for diversity and inclusion, challenging long-held norms and inspiring a new generation of dancers.

Copeland’s decision to step away from full-time performance with ABT wasn’t sudden. She began contemplating this shift around 2019, recognizing a waning passion for the rigorous demands of classical repertoire. “I never saw myself doing classical works into my 40s,” she explained. “And I’ve always thought when the time comes that I don’t have the same kind of drive and passion, I shouldn’t be doing it.” A stress fracture in her back in 2019, ironically, served as a clarifying moment, reinforcing her desire to focus on broader initiatives.

The Evolving Relationship with American Ballet Theatre

Copeland’s relationship with ABT has mirrored her own artistic and personal growth. She credits former artistic director Kevin McKenzie with recognizing and nurturing her unique potential, providing opportunities that were historically denied to Black dancers. “So many of the Black dancers who have come through this company weren’t given those opportunities,” she noted.

The transition wasn’t without its challenges. Copeland expressed difficulty in gaining full support for her vision of expanding access to ballet, but ultimately, after conversations with mentors, she felt ready to embrace a new phase. ABT, recognizing her contributions and the desires of its audiences, initially expressed a desire for her continued presence on stage. However, Copeland felt a responsibility to create space for emerging talent. “It’s always been so important to me, when it’s my time, to really step away, because there are so many amazing dancers who deserve the opportunity.”

Beyond the Stage: A Commitment to Equity and Access

Copeland’s future is firmly rooted in expanding opportunities within the dance world. She is deeply committed to addressing the systemic issues that have historically limited diversity and inclusivity. Her focus extends beyond simply increasing representation; she aims to dismantle harmful training practices and create nurturing environments for young dancers.

“It’s so hard to get people to break free of the trauma of abusive teaching that is unfortunately still prevalent in the ballet world,” Copeland explained. She champions the work of the BE BOLD teaching artists at the Misty Copeland Foundation, who are dedicated to fostering a joyful and supportive learning environment.

Copeland’s vision extends to leveraging the arts as a tool for personal development. Through her production company, she is developing projects that highlight the positive impact of dance and challenge negative stereotypes. She believes in the power of storytelling to inspire and empower the next generation of dancers.

Misty Copeland in Paul Taylor’s Company B. Photo by Gene Schiavone, courtesy ABT.

What does it mean to truly redefine success in the world of ballet? And how can we ensure that future generations of dancers have the support and resources they need to thrive, regardless of their background?

Misty Copeland as Kitri in Don Quixote. Photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy ABT.

Copeland’s final performances with ABT promise to be a celebration of her remarkable career, featuring both beloved classics and new works. She intends to create a space for both the main company and the Studio Company, reflecting her own journey through the ABT pipeline. “I want it to feel like a celebration, and not something that drags on for hours,” she said.

Frequently Asked Questions About Misty Copeland’s Transition