The dance world is mourning the tragic passing of Michaela DePrince, an internationally renowned ballerina, at just 29 years old. DePrince’s story of perseverance, from war-torn Sierra Leone to the heights of ballet stardom, captivated millions worldwide.
Born as Mabinty Bangura during Sierra Leone’s brutal civil war, DePrince lost both of her parents and endured life in an orphanage where she was mistreated due to her vitiligo, a skin condition that led some to label her a “devil’s child.” Her escape from this hardship came in the form of a magazine photo of a ballerina, sparking a dream that would carry her far beyond the war.
At the age of four, she was adopted by an American couple, Elaine and Charles DePrince, who nurtured her passion for dance. Despite facing prejudice in a traditionally exclusive world of ballet, DePrince shattered barriers, earning a place at the prestigious Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School at American Ballet Theatre. Her rise continued as she joined the Dance Theatre of Harlem, the Dutch National Ballet, and later, the Boston Ballet.
DePrince’s fame extended beyond ballet stages. In 2016, she performed in Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” film, bringing her graceful movements to a whole new audience. Her story was also chronicled in her memoir, Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina, written alongside her adoptive mother, Elaine.
Tragically, news also broke that DePrince’s adoptive mother, Elaine, passed away within 24 hours of her daughter’s death, adding another layer of heartbreak to this already devastating loss.
The dance community and fans alike continue to celebrate DePrince’s incredible journey. From the darkest corners of war-torn Sierra Leone to the most prestigious stages in the world, her legacy as a trailblazer and inspiration will endure for generations.
Notable quote:
“The arts can change you as a person. Dancing helped me share my emotions and connect to my family, it helped me feel like I was special and not the ‘devil’s child.’” – Michaela DePrince, in a 2015 interview for The Guardian