Misty Copeland has retired from the American Ballet Theatre, concluding a trailblazing career that established her as a pivotal ambassador for diversity within the predominantly white art form. Her final performance on Wednesday was met with golden glitter and bouquets.
A decade ago, Copeland made history as the first Black female principal dancer in the company's 75-year existence. Her departure was celebrated at a star-studded fall gala at Manhattan's Lincoln Center, attended by figures such as Oprah Winfrey and Debbie Allen, who delivered speeches in her honor.
