Misty Copeland, the American Ballet Theatre's (ABT) first Black principal dancer, has announced her retirement from professional ballet after 25 years with the company. The news marks a significant milestone in Copeland's illustrious career, which has been characterized by her tireless efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in the world of ballet.

A Legacy of Breaking Barriers

Copeland's promotion to principal dancer in 2015 was a historic moment, shattering the glass ceiling for Black performers in elite ballet. Throughout her career, she has been vocal about the prejudices and stereotypes that have kept Black people off the stage. In a recent interview with The New York Times, Copeland reflected on her impact, saying, "My whole career is proof that when you have diversity, people come together and want to understand each other and want to be a community together."

A Farewell Performance

Copeland's farewell performance with the ABT is scheduled for October 22, 2025, at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center. The event, "A Celebration Honoring Misty Copeland," will feature performances by Copeland and other dancers, speeches from esteemed guests, and video montages of her 25-year tenure with the ABT. Caroline Kennedy and Oprah Winfrey will serve as honorary chairs for the farewell event.

Life After Ballet

Although Copeland is retiring from professional ballet, she has made it clear that she intends to stay active in the world of dance. She has founded The Misty Copeland Foundation, authored numerous children's books and memoirs, and co-founded Life In Motion, a production company. These projects meet Copeland's goal of increasing diversity in the arts and touching people through different means.

In a statement to the Associated Press, Copeland said, "I think I've just gotten to a place in my career where there's only so much I can do on a stage. There's only so much that visual representation like that can do. I feel like it's the perfect timing for me to be stepping into a new role, and hopefully still shaping and shifting the ballet world and culture."

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Misty Copeland's legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, and her farewell performance promises to be an unforgettable celebration of her remarkable career.