End of an Era: Misty Copeland Bids Farewell to the American Ballet Theatre
The curtain has fallen on Misty Copeland’s illustrious career at the American Ballet Theatre (ABT), marking the end of a groundbreaking chapter in the world of ballet. On Wednesday, Copeland took her final bow at a star-studded gala at Manhattan’s Lincoln Center, a celebration of her career that was both a return to the stage and a farewell.
Renowned for breaking barriers, Copeland became the first Black female principal dancer in ABT’s history ten years ago. Her retirement was celebrated with tributes from luminaries such as Oprah Winfrey and Debbie Allen. Winfrey highlighted the impact of Copeland’s career, stating, “Misty didn’t just perform ballet. She changed it. She redefined who belongs, who gets to be seen, and who gets to lead.”
This gala marked Copeland’s first performance with ABT in five years. During her time away, she focused on her family and philanthropic endeavors. Her son, Jackson, aged three, joined her on stage, symbolizing her transition from dancer to devoted mother. Meanwhile, Copeland has continued to author books, with the latest installment of her Bunheads series launching in September, and has championed diversity in dance through her foundation’s “Be Bold” program.
Copeland’s final performance included a reprise of her favorite role as Juliet, partnered by Calvin Royal III, ABT’s first Black male principal dancer in two decades. The evening also featured a modern duet, Wrecka Stow, and Twyla Tharp’s Sinatra Suite with Herman Cornejo, another of her cherished partners.
On to the Next Stage
Despite stepping away from ABT, Copeland has not entirely closed the door on dance. “It’s been 25 years at ABT, and I think it’s time,” she mentioned in an interview, expressing gratitude for the opportunities ballet afforded her. She added, “It’s a farewell. (But) it won’t be the end of me dancing. … Never say never.”
Copeland’s influence extends beyond the stage, as she continues to advocate for diversity in the arts. Debbie Allen praised her for redefining ballet’s face, hoping ABT will soon see another Black principal dancer. Copeland’s farewell gala, streamed to the public at Alice Tully Hall, underscored her widespread appeal.
Growing up in Kansas City, Missouri, and facing hardships in California, Copeland’s late start in ballet at age 13 didn’t hinder her rise. She trained at prestigious institutions and joined ABT’s junior company in 2001, becoming a soloist six years later. In 2015, her historic promotion to principal dancer was announced at a news conference, a testament to her celebrity status.
Challenges in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
With Copeland’s departure, ABT will lack a Black female principal dancer, a situation she finds concerning. Reflecting on her career, Copeland emphasized the need for continued efforts in diversity and inclusion, stating, “There’s only so much I can do on a stage. There’s only so much that visual representation … can do.”
In current times, she acknowledges the challenges faced by those working in diversity, equity, and inclusion. “It’s a difficult time,” she remarked. “And I think all we can really do is keep our heads down and keep doing the work. There’s no way to stop the people that feel passionate about this work. We will continue doing it.”
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
