Misty Copeland's Impact On Ballet Can't Be Measured

After a remarkable, decades-spanning journey, ballerina Misty Copeland, celebrated not only for her stage achievements but also her advocacy, is retiring from the American Ballet Theatre.Copeland, whose last performance was five years ago, will receive accolades during a glittering Fall Gala on Wednesday, with tributes from renowned figures like Oprah Winfrey and Debbie Allen. Her final performance will include segments from Romeo and Juliet, Sinatra Suite, and a world premiere piece choreographed by Kyle Abraham.In an Instagram statement, Copeland expressed her commitment to fostering inclusivity within ballet.To accommodate diverse audiences, the ABT is offering numerous free tickets for a live simulcast at nearby Alice Tully Hall.Copeland, who began dancing at 13, became a groundbreaking figure in ballet, breaking racial barriers by becoming ABT's first Black woman principal dancer. Her influence transcends performances, sparking crucial dialogues about racial representation in the arts, illuminating the necessity for diversity and accessibility in ballet. Her farewell marks both an end and a celebration of her transformative legacy.

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