When I launched this site several months ago, the TIG Talk feature was devised as a way to introduce you to people that you either know (think Heidi Klum) or that you definitely need to know. Misty Copeland is perhaps the former, and if not, then she most certainly is the latter. Currently dancing the role of Clara in the American Ballet Theater’s production of The Nutcracker, she is the first African American female soloist in over two decades at ABT (and the second everrr). Earlier this year, President Obama invited her to be on the President’s Council on Fitness, Heath, and Nutrition; she published a New York Times bestselling memoir, Life in Motion, in March and a children’s book, Firebird, which came out in September; oh, and lest we forget her induction into the National Boys and Girls Hall of Fame, her countless endorsement deals, and the fact that she is redefining the world of the arts. Here’s the thing—as a biracial woman, I know what it’s like to want to follow your dreams and hear a lot of “no’s” along the way—not as a reflection of your talent but because you’re just not quite how they envisioned the role. And you may remember my story of being a little girl and wanting a doll that looked like me: well, Misty is that real life doll—the role model, the pretty princess, the ballerina that the 10 year old me so desperately needed to see. I couldn’t be more overjoyed to feature Misty on today’s TIG Talk. Thanks Misty—for reminding so many of us that dreams can (and do) come true—Bravo!
- My nickname is: Miki.
- The first thing I do when I wake up is: Order breakfast from the corner deli.
- I can’t live without: Music.
- If I had one week to escape: I would lay on a beach in Greece.
- If I only had $10 in my pocket: I would head to the Pier I Cafe on the Hudson River and enjoy an affordable glass of wine outside.
- Everything tastes better with a little: Truffle oil, truffle salt, anything truffle!
Images via: Under Armour, Elle, The Edit/Trent McGinn, Gregg Delman