Misty Copeland Retiring From American Ballet Theatre After 25 Years

Copeland in 2015 became the first African American female Principal Dancer for the company.

Misty Copeland in “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms.” Disney

Renowned ballet dancer Misty Copeland is bidding farewell to the American Ballet Theatre (ABT), after more than two decades with the decorated institution.

The 42-year-old took to Instagram on June 7 to announce her retirement from the company, with her final performance scheduled for ABT’s Fall Gala on Oct. 22.