Misty Copeland Retiring From American Ballet Theatre After 25 Years

Renowned ballet dancer Misty Copeland is bidding farewell to the American Ballet Theatre (ABT), after more than two decades with the decorated institution.

The 42-year-old took to Instagram on June 7 to announce her retirement from the company, with her final performance scheduled for ABT’s Fall Gala on Oct. 22.

“After 25 years with @abtofficial, I’ll be taking my final bow this fall,” she captioned a carousel of her dance photos.

“Although I’ll be saying farewell to the stage, I’ll always be committed to opening doors, creating space, and making ballet a place where everyone belongs.”

Copeland joined ABT in 2000 and became the first black female Principal Dancer in 2015. The promotion followed her New York leading debut as Odette/Odile in “Swan Lake.”

In a June 9 press release, ABT artistic director Susan Jaffe referred to Copeland as a “once-in-a-generation artist” whose “brilliance transcends the stage.”

“Her legacy at ABT is profound—not only through the roles she’s redefined but also through the lives she’s inspired,” read the statement. “Misty’s advocacy for inclusion, equity, and education ensures her impact will resonate far beyond this moment.”

During her time with the company, Copeland notably held the title role in “Firebird” and played Juliet in “Romeo and Juliet” and Clara in “The Nutcracker.”

“I could never have imagined the life ballet would give me,” Copeland reflected. “To dance on the world’s greatest stages, with artists I admire so deeply, has been one of the greatest gifts of my life.

“My time with ABT has shaped me not just as a dancer, but as a person, and given me the platform to reach back and make space for others. This moment isn’t a farewell, it’s a celebration of everything we’ve built together, and a step toward all the work that’s still ahead.”

Beyond the stage, Copeland added New York Times Bestselling author to her resume with her memoir, “Life in Motion.”

She also found passion in dedicating her time to charitable organizations and serving as a mentor for young girls and boys.

In 2021, she launched “The Misty Copeland Foundation,” a nonprofit organization geared toward providing opportunities for young aspiring dancers in low-income communities.

Copeland also “advances diversity and access in dance education” through her “Be Bold” initiative, according to the ABT statement.