Misty Copeland officially became the first African-American woman to be named a principal in the 75-year history of the American Ballet Theater on Saturday, but the dancer wasn’t celebrating with a champagne toast or big party.
Instead, she sat before 1,000 fans who came to the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture in Baltimore to hear her story of overcoming racial inequality to reach one of ballet’s highest pinnacles. In ballet, principals are typically paid more and take on more prestigious roles.
Little girls in tutus, dance T-shirts and tiaras lined up hours early to see their idol and role model. The line to see Copeland snaked down the street, and she received a standing ovation when she walked into the room to speak.
Copeland’s natural dancing ability stood out when she was discovered at 13, and she was described as a child prodigy. But as she advanced in her career and her body changed, ballet companies told her she was too big and muscular. And she said her brown skin kept her from roles traditionally held by white dancers.
She began talking about race in ballet after feeling isolated and alone in the big ballet companies, with mostly white dancers. When she connected with other black dancers, she realized they shared a common experience.
“I am just speaking my truth and my experiences,” Copeland said, adding that she has never seen herself as an activist.
Her stage has grown worldwide as people have been touched and inspired by her story. She is a spokeswoman for Under Arrmour and was featured as one of Time magazine’s most influential people.
The 32-year-old hopes to reach other little girls with the same struggles she once endured. She mentors young dancers and has started a program with her dance company to improve diversity. Because of the years of training it takes to become a professional dancer, she said it will take time before changes are seen on stage.
“That is not something you can just see transform over night,” she said.
Copeland signed copies of her memoir “Life in Motion” and her children’s book “Firebird” while at the Reginald Lewis Museum.
Some girls jumped up and down and clutched their chests when their turn came and they stood before her. A humble Copeland greeted each girl with a smile.
“It’s important for me to be a real person,” she said. “I am not somebody up on a pedestal. It is not about me as an individual. It is about what I represent.
Jada and Kendall Briggs, 10-year-old twins, traveled from North Carolina to see Copeland. Both girls dance and figure skate.
“She was amazing,” Kendall Briggs said, holding a signed book.
The twins’ older sister, 18-year-old Kennedy Briggs, said she has struggled with the same body-image issues as Copeland, but as a figure skater. People told her that her body was too curvy and that she should quit skating.
“She motivates me to keep going,” Kennedy Briggs said.
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