All Arts: Watch: Misty Copeland Talks Books and Why She Champions Ballet

By Isabella Boylston

17 September 2020

When I came up with my wish list of artists to interview for Ballerina Book Club, Misty was at the top. She’s changed the game and inspired me and so many. In addition to all of her accomplishments in the ballet world, she’s a best-selling author.

One of the things I missed most about this Met season was getting to share a dressing room with my sisters, Misty and Stella Abrera. Those times we spend together backstage create a unique bond that I treasure so deeply. Speaking of the Met season, Misty was slated for a historic performance of “Romeo and Juliet” opposite the stunning danseur noble Calvin Royal III, who’s this month’s “Friend Picks” interview.

Luckily, I was able to catch up with Misty over Zoom for this interview in May. I really enjoyed hearing Misty’s take on how writing and dancing are parallel creative process. I hope you enjoy the interview as much as I did!

Don’t miss her new children’s book “Bunheads,” available Sept. 29.

Watch the full interview in the video above. A modified transcript is below.

The following interview transcript has been lightly edited for clarity.

Hi, Misty. Welcome to “Ballerina Book Club.” We’re so happy that you’re here.

Thank you. I’m so, so excited. I’ve never done anything like this with my friends and colleagues.

I know. Okay, so, first thing: We should talk about when we first met.

Okay. Oh, my gosh. Do you remember this story?

I don’t think so. I mean, all I know is when I first came to ABT, obviously, I knew who you were. I had the Pointe Magazine with you on the cover. And I was just intimidated, frankly, because you were just this impressive figure and beautiful dancer and everything.

You’re crazy. No, I just remember you were new to the studio company, just starting with the new group. And we were at a party. I can’t remember whose house we were at. And you came up to me — maybe it was some type of donor thing, but I just remember it was a house and party situation — and you introduced yourself as Hildur. And then you were like, “Wait. I mean, Isabella. I mean, wait.” And I was like, “Huh?” And it was so adorable. And that was my first impression of you.

Read the full interview here.