Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina

The breakthroughs in Misty’s life, from collaborating with Prince to getting in contact with her father and gaining support from Kevin, help her learn to speak up for herself not only in her dance career but also about race. She learns more about Black ballerinas who came before her, which helps her find her voice. For instance, after reading about Raven Wilkinson in The New York Times, Misty later has the opportunity to meet Raven. Misty’s agent, spurred by Misty’s glowing praise of the retired dancer, reaches out to Raven and learns that she has followed Misty’s career in the news. Misty then interviews Raven for a documentary. They stay in contact from then on.

Misty also learns about other Black dancers such as Aesha Ash, Alicia Graf Mack, Lauren Anderson, and Tai Jimenez, feeling a deep connection with them. They make her feel less alone in the climb to success, which “can be lonely and terrifying” when you look around and “see no one else who resembles you” (228). Over time, Misty learns to speak up for herself, such as refusing to paint her face white for certain roles.

She also gains more experience and confidence. Finally, in 2007, Kevin nominates Misty to represent ABT at the famous Erik Bruhn Competition, for which the four top ballet companies in the world nominate their best dancers.