white tutu and pink pointe shoes in the background. Title overlayed " BlackFace in Ballet"

Blackface in Ballet: The Racist Legacy the Dance World Still Has to Confront

Ballet is one of the world’s most elegant art forms — every movement precise, every detail meaningful. But beneath the grace and discipline of classical dance lies a history that’s far less beautiful. Today we’re confronting one of ballet’s most uncomfortable truths: the history of blackface in ballet. This isn’t just about outdated makeup or …

Misty Copeland’s Oscars Performance and the Firebird Legacy: Why This Moment Matters for Ballet History

When Misty Copeland appeared on stage at the Oscars last night, ballet briefly took center stage in front of millions of viewers around the world. For many audience members, it was simply a beautiful performance tied to the film Sinners. But for dancers and people familiar with ballet history, the moment carried a deeper meaning. …

How the Great Depression and the Harlem Renaissance Happened at the Same Time — And What It Meant for Dance

When people hear about the Great Depression, they often imagine economic hardship, unemployment, and uncertainty. It was one of the most difficult financial periods in American history. Families lost jobs, homes, and stability. But something remarkable was happening culturally at the exact same time. During this era of economic struggle, one of the most influential …