EXCLUSIVE: Misty Copeland on overcoming adversity, fighting for diversity in ballet |
EXCLUSIVE: Misty Copeland on overcoming adversity, fighting for diversity in ballet
The State
Columbia, South Carolina
2016-03-09
Misty Copeland Provided photo
- The prima ballerina talks body image and being named the first black woman principal dancer
- Copeland comes to Columbia for a ballet fundraiser with Elgin native Brooklyn Mack
There was time when Misty Copeland, one of the world’s most recognizable dancers, felt lost and insecure. That was before being named the first black principal ballerina for a major ballet company, before the Under Armour sponsorship, the book deal and the documentary on her life.
Copeland, 33, who is a source of inspiration for young women, minorities, dancers and athletes, will share her story in Columbia on Tuesday, March 15 at a fundraising luncheon for Columbia Classical Ballet and Columbia City Ballet. She will be joined by Brooklyn Mack, the Elgin native who now dances for The Washington Ballet and is also breaking barriers as a black dancer…
…What are some of the topics you plan to discuss when you come to speak in Columbia?
Copeland: I think it’ll be a sharing of our experiences and opening people’s eyes up to the lack of diversity in ballet, and for me what it is to be a part of a company where you’re the only black woman. (Brooklyn and I) are both proof of success in the classical ballet world. It should be an organic conversation…
Read the entire interview here.
Tags: ballet, Brooklyn Mack, dance, Erin Shaw, Misty Copeland