Misty Copeland Carries A Legacy of a Lifetime As She Takes Her Final Bow
Image Credit: Misty Copeland (Instagram)
With every twist and turn, bend and pose, pioneer, Misty Copeland has captivated the world through her groundbreaking performances.
A decade after making history as the first African-American principal dancer for the American Ballet Theatre, Copeland is now hanging up her pointe shoes and being honored as a legend whose name will remain relevant in discussions of legacy.
In a performance that took place on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at Lincoln Center in New York City, Copeland took her final bow, marking her return to the stage after a five-year hiatus.
The event was a celebration and tribute to her influential, culture-shaping, resilient and heartening career.
She performed as Juliet in the iconic balcony pas de deux, which is one of her favorites, according to The Associated Press. Calvin Royal III, the first African-American male dancer for American Ballet Theatre in over two decades, accompanied her in this dance as Romeo.
Copeland and Royal III also performed Wrecka Stow, a contemporary, modern duet by Kyle Abraham. For Copeland’s final performance, she danced Twyla Tharp’s Sinatra Suite with Herman Cornejo.
Lincoln Center was packed with an audience in awe of the many accomplishments Copeland has unlocked, even down to the significance of her final performance.
Image Credit: Misty Copeland (Instagram)
As stated by Oprah Winfrey, who served as the honorary chair of this event, “Misty didn’t just perform ballet, she redefined who belongs, who gets to be seen, and who gets to lead.”
Copeland’s final performance of the night was symbolic. It was a true testament to the heights Black women can reach and a moment that reimagined the dancing culture for many Black girls.
Just after officially announcing her retirement in June 2025, Copeland spoke with The New York Times Magazine and emphasized how her career has instilled hope in many people.
“So many young Black and brown people didn’t even know Lincoln Center was a place they could step foot in [...] When they see my poster on the front, they feel like it opens their minds up to a whole new world,” Copeland explained.
Image Credit: Misty Copeland (Instagram)
The ballet dancer and writer has opened the doors for diversity and shifted perspectives in places where, at one point in time, Black people couldn’t imagine themselves being recognized.
Copeland’s career serves as a reminder that representation is sometimes the inspiration that fuels one's ability to chase their dreams.
But long before her inspirational and barrier-breaking impact, Copeland figuratively leaped over many hurdles.
Growing up, Copeland, her mother and siblings spent a portion of their lives living in a motel. Her mother received food stamps, and often, Copeland would ride a bus for two hours to attend dance class, according to an article published by Raider Times.
Image Credit: Misty Copeland (Instagram)
The renowned dancer also recalls being the only Black girl in the class. “There were times throughout my training where, I mean, I clearly was the only black girl in the class,” Copeland said.
In a stunning transformation, the little Black girl from Kansas City, who once understood the feelings of being overlooked and marginalized, is now the reason why so many little girls are confident in their abilities.
Copeland has turned that experience into an enduring legacy and a cultural influence among current and future generations.
Her retirement from dance doesn’t mean a sudden halt to her impact. Copeland has a reach that goes far beyond the stage.
Serving as CEO of The Misty Copeland Foundation, an author of many children’s books, a mentor and encouraging people globally, many are excited to see what Copeland will conquer next and how she will expand her lasting foundation of influence.
Image Credit: Misty Copeland (Instagram)
