Ballet enthusiasts should prepare for an unforgettable occasion as Misty Copeland, a trailblazer in the ballet world, is set to take her final bow with the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) later this month. Notably recognized as the first African American woman promoted to Principal Dancer in the company’s 85-year history, Copeland’s farewell performance is poised to be a momentous event.
On October 22, fans can enjoy a live stream of Copeland’s last performance at ABT’s Fall Gala, taking place at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall. The event promises accessibility, with hundreds of free tickets set to be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 4 pm, allowing the community to celebrate this significant milestone together. The live simulcast is scheduled to commence at 6:15 pm, drawing an enthusiastic audience of ballet lovers who are eager to witness this historic moment.
After a five-year hiatus from the stage, Copeland will return for one final performance alongside her ABT colleagues in a specially curated program that celebrates her outstanding career. While this marks her official farewell from the company, she remains dedicated to making an impact in the ballet community. Through her Misty Copeland Foundation and its BE BOLD initiatives, she aims to make ballet accessible and engaging for children from diverse backgrounds.
American Ballet Theatre’s artistic director, Susan Jaffe, expressed pride in inviting the public to honor Copeland’s remarkable journey, emphasizing the transformative influence she has had on the art form. The evening will also host heartfelt tributes from notable figures such as Oprah Winfrey and Debbie Allen, commemorating Copeland’s contributions on stage, while prominent celebrities like Katie Holmes, Gayle King, and Taye Diggs are anticipated to attend.
The atmosphere at Alice Tully Hall is expected to be vibrant and communal, especially with students from Copeland’s foundation programs—represented by participants from BronxWorks, Boys & Girls Clubs, and Harlem’s DREAM Charter School—invited as special guests. Shanta Thake, Lincoln Center’s chief artistic officer, highlighted that this simulcast ensures that an even wider audience can share in honoring Copeland’s remarkable career and her unparalleled leadership in ballet, creating an inclusive celebration of artistry and legacy.