When people meet me in person, they're usually surprised at how petite I am because there's this idea that because I'm black, I just look a certain way. Misty Copeland blackideameet Change image and share on social
I think that having a platform and having a voice to be seen by people beyond the classical ballet world has really been my power, I feel. Misty Copeland balletclassicalfeel Change image and share on social
Don't hold on to the barre like, 'I might die.' It's just ballet. Misty Copeland balletbarredie Change image and share on social
I would have young dancers come to me and ask me questions and want to know what my experiences were like: 'What's it like being a black dancer?' So I just felt like it was necessary for me to share my experiences with them. Misty Copeland blackdancerexperience share on social
I say over and over again that I am just standing on the shoulders of so many who have set this path for me, and they may not be seen or recognized or have been given an opportunity to have a voice, but I'm here representing all of those dancers. Dance Theatre of Harlem Virginia Johnson, Tai Jimenez, Lauren Anderson. Misty Copeland andersondancedancer share on social
I wanted to open the dialogue about race in ballet and bring more people in. It's just beautiful to see the interest that has exploded for such an incredible art form that I will forever be grateful to! Misty Copeland artballetbeautiful share on social
Depending on the level you're at in your company, the higher you go up in rank, usually the longer you can dance. Misty Copeland companydancedepend Change image and share on social
If I'm put in a situation where I am not really sure what's going to happen, it can be overwhelming. I get a bit anxious. Misty Copeland anxiousbitehappen Change image and share on social
I was definitely a late bloomer and didn't really come into my own until I was probably in my 20s. Misty Copeland 20sbloomerlate Change image and share on social
I feel like going to class every morning is so humbling. You're always working to improve, and you're always being critiqued on your next performance. It's not about what you've done. There's always room to grow. Misty Copeland classcritiquefeel share on social