On Friday, September 13, 2024, the dance world was shaken by the unexpected passing of Michaela Mabinty DePrince. At 29 years old, she was a rising star in ballet who touched countless lives with her artistry and inspiring journey.
DePrince’s official Instagram account shared the sad news, describing her as a “beacon of hope” whose “life was defined by grace, purpose, and strength.” The statement highlighted her unwavering commitment to her art, humanitarian efforts, and courage in overcoming unimaginable challenges.
Born in war-torn Sierra Leone and orphaned young, DePrince’s journey to becoming a principal dancer with the Boston Ballet was extraordinary. Adopted by an American couple at age 4, she discovered her passion for ballet in New Jersey, where her talent quickly became evident.
DePrince’s remarkable skill and unique story caught the attention of many, including pop icon Beyoncé, who featured her in the visual album “Lemonade” in 2016. In a Wall Street Journal interview that year, DePrince recalled Beyoncé’s praise: “She said I looked like I was a creature from another planet.”
DePrince danced with prestigious companies, including the Dance Theatre of Harlem and the Dutch National Ballet. She also authored two memoirs, sharing her inspiring story of resilience and determination.
The ballet community has been quick to pay tribute. Ming Min Hui, executive director of the Boston Ballet, praised DePrince’s advocacy for ballet as “a much bigger source of inspiration and hope for people.” Another trailblazing ballerina, Misty Copeland, expressed her devastation on Instagram, noting that DePrince “had so much more to give, not just to ballet, but to the world.”
While the cause of DePrince’s untimely death has not been disclosed, her impact on the world of dance and beyond is undeniable. Her legacy as a talented artist, inspiring figure, and advocate for diversity in ballet will continue to resonate, encouraging future generations to pursue their dreams against all odds.
As the dance community and fans worldwide mourn this significant loss, Michaela Mabinty DePrince’s story remains a powerful testament to the transformative power of art and the indomitable human spirit. US Magazine