September 10

Misty Copeland is a groundbreaking ballerina whose talent, perseverance, and cultural impact have redefined the world of classical dance in America.

Born on September 10, 1982 in Kansas City, MO and raised in Southern California, Copeland did not begin formal ballet training until the age of 13 — a relatively late start in the world of professional dance. Despite financial hardships and personal struggles, her natural ability and fierce determination quickly caught the attention of teachers and mentors who recognized her extraordinary potential. Within a few years, she was performing at elite levels, breaking through barriers that had historically excluded dancers of color.

In 2015, Misty Copeland made history when she was promoted to principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre (ABT), becoming the first African American woman to hold that position in the company’s 75-year history. This milestone was not only a personal achievement, but also a cultural moment that reverberated beyond the dance world. Her elevation challenged the Eurocentric beauty standards and traditions that had long dominated ballet, opening doors for young dancers of diverse backgrounds. Copeland’s performances in roles such as Odette/Odile in Swan Lake and Juliet in Romeo and Juliet showcased her technical mastery and emotional depth, earning her critical acclaim and the admiration of audiences worldwide.

Beyond the stage, Copeland has emerged as a powerful cultural figure and advocate for inclusion in the arts. She has authored several books, including her best-selling memoir Life in Motion, which chronicles her journey from obscurity to international recognition.

Her writing and public speaking engagements emphasize the importance of representation, mentorship, and perseverance, particularly for young girls of color who may feel unseen in traditional artistic spaces. Through her work, Copeland has become a role model not only for aspiring dancers but for anyone striving to overcome adversity and redefine the limits of what is possible.

Copeland’s influence extends into popular culture as well. She has appeared in major advertising campaigns, collaborated with brands, and even danced in a high-profile commercial set to a spoken word piece by poet Charles Bukowski, which emphasized strength and individuality. Her visibility has brought ballet to new audiences and helped dismantle the perception of it as an exclusive or elitist art form. By embracing both her classical training and her modern platform, Copeland has expanded the cultural relevance of ballet in contemporary society.

Misty Copeland’s legacy continues to grow as she uses her artistry and voice to inspire systemic change within the dance world and beyond. She has not only elevated the art form through her performances, but has also reshaped the narrative around who belongs on stage.

The life and career of Misty Copeland stand as a testament to the power of resilience, representation, and reimagining tradition. In doing so, she has carved out a place in American cultural history as one of the most influential dancers of her generation.