October 24, 2025
Copeland, the primary Black principal dancer for The American Ballet Theatre, has retired.
Misty Copeland, the primary Black principal dancer for The American Ballet Theatre, took her ultimate bow and was given her flowers by Black royalty.
On Oct. 22, on the David H. Koch Theater, Copeland concluded her groundbreaking profession. She carried out within the gala occasion, “A Celebration Honoring Misty Copeland,” a part of ABT’s Fall Gala and co-chaired by Caroline Kennedy and Oprah Winfrey.
Following her ultimate bow, Copeland was celebrated by members of the family, firm members, and legends. One of many first in line to current the prima ballerina a surprising bouquet of purple roses was Oprah. As a prolific determine in Black tradition, the media mogul and Black-woman billionaire acknowledged Copeland’s contribution to breaking limitations within the dance world.
Together with Oprah, Debbie Allen was current to help the now residing legend in her ultimate creative displaying, with the trailblazer taking the stage following Winfrey. The five-time Emmy-winner, choreographer and proprietor of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy blazed a path within the dance world leaving doorways open in her wake. Copeland walked by means of these doorways as a younger dancer on the Debbie Allen Dance Academy.
An official Instagram account posted a heartfelt tribute to Copeland.
“We’re endlessly happy with Misty’s exceptional profession, her grace, and the doorways she’s opened for dancers in all places. Brava, Misty. The curtain might have closed, however your mild continues to shine,” the put up learn.
Past her contribution to ballet, Copeland based the Misty Copeland Basis, printed books and co-founded a manufacturing firm. All of her endeavors are geared toward creating entry and illustration. Whereas she steps down from ABT, Copeland says her dancing journey will not be completed.
She informed Individuals that this second “will not be a farewell, it’s a celebration of all the things we’ve constructed collectively, and a step towards all of the work that’s nonetheless forward.”
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