A Conversation with American Ballet Theatre Principal Dancer Misty Copeland and Dean Endalyn T. Outlaw

Misty Copeland, the first Black woman to be promoted to principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre, spoke to UNCSA dance students, alumni and community members on campus last Friday. In a conversation with School of Dance Dean Endalyn T. Outlaw, she talked about her life, career and influences as well as issues of equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging in ballet.

Copeland highlighted notable Black dancers from throughout history who have been overlooked, as featured in her book, “Black Ballerinas.” She also discussed her new initiative, "Be Bold," a free after-school dance program that aims to make ballet accessible, affordable and fun, especially for children of color, and advanced the importance of creating opportunities for underrepresented groups in dance.