Over a Cup of Coffee: Support System

Considered late in training, Misty Copeland began her ballet studies at the age of 13, at the San Pedro City Ballet. Quickly becoming a prodigy, she moved on to study at the Lauridsen Ballet Center, the San Francisco Ballet School, and then finally a scholarship award at ABT- American Ballet Theatre. At 15, while fielding professional offers, Misty’s mother entered into a legal battle with her custodial parents who were also serving as her ballet instructors.

Copeland joined the ABT Corps de Ballet in 2001, was appointed soloist in 2007, and was promoted to principal dancer in 2015. The first African American woman to promote to principal dancer in ABT’s 75-year history.  

At age 39 she remains at ABT as a principal dancer and her credits are beyond interesting and too long to list in this post. Additionally, she is a public speaker, model, author, dancewear designer, and the featured dancer in the “Crimson and Clover” music video by Prince.

Misty Copeland gives the advice, “Be strong, be fearless, be beautiful. And believe that anything is possible when you have the right people there to support you.”

Today, Jamie and Addie, talk about support & support systems. It is never too late to build your network or to be part of someone else’s. Find like-minded people who will traverse life changes with you. Many services can be found online including the New Mexico Crisis and Access Line. You can also reach NM Crisis and Access at 1-855-662-7474 or their Peer-to-Peer Warmline at 1-855-466-7100.