“A Ballerina’s Tale” documents the incredible rise of Misty Copeland.
Iconic ballerina Misty Copeland made history when she became the first African-American woman to be named principal dancer of the legendary American Ballet Theater. Get the incredible, behind-the-scenes story of how she overcame a tumultuous upbringing and near career-ending injuries to become one of the most revered dancers of her generation. More than just a ballet success story, Copeland’s journey is a hugely inspirational, universal tale of perseverance.
Director Nelson George says: “I’ve always loved storytelling that captures a person at a defining moment. In ‘A Ballerina’s Tale’ we see Misty Copeland’s rise in the cloistered world of classical ballet, culminating in a performance of the classic Firebird at the Metropolitan Opera House with the American Ballet Theatre. But that’s only act one. After that performance Misty revealed she had multiple fractures in her left shin and would need career threatening surgery. I was at the Met that night. The storyteller in me knew this was opportunity to see an important figure at a turning point in her career and life. I stayed in contact with Misty the rest of that year and, following her surgery, she agreed to let me document her recovery. I shot my first footage on a wintery January day as Misty struggled through a ballet class and a rehabilitation session. I had no idea what kind of ending I’d have or when I’d stop shooting. I just knew that whatever happened I wanted to create an intimate portrait of a very determined artist. Closely observing Misty as she fought, not just to regain her form but to serve as a role model for others, gave shape and purpose to ‘A Ballerina’s Tale’.”
“Inspirational doesn’t begin to describe it!” raves David Fear from Rolling Stone.
“A testament to Misty Copeland’s strength and talent,” says Amy Brady from The Village Voice.