September 10
Born Today:
Misty Copeland
Ballerina Misty Copeland (1982-) was the first African-American woman to be named principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) in 2015. Copeland began dancing at the late age of 13 and she has been instrumental in the movement to more fully integrate ballet dance companies and provide training for young dancers of color.
Also Born Today: Dancer Adele Astaire (1896-1981), sister and early performing partner of Fred Astaire (1899-1987). Norman Morrice (1931-2008) was director of Ballet Rambert and the Royal Ballet. Harry Groener (1951-) apprenticed at the SF Ballet before pursuing a career in TV and film.