At the 2026 Academy Awards, Misty Copeland made a stunning appearance on stage, dazzling in a costume filled with feathers and jewels. During her performance of “I Lied to You,” a song from the Oscar-nominated film Sinners, she brought ballet into the spotlight.
Misty’s performance took place just days after a controversial remark about ballet’s place in mainstream culture. Despite the timing, Misty insists it was coincidental. She had committed to the performance long before the comment made headlines. “That’s definitely how it seems,” she said from Los Angeles, “but it was not at all. I had agreed to do this before everything unfolded.”
The performance was part of a vision from Serena Göransson, the creative producer, meant to deepen the connection between the Oscars and Ryan Coogler’s film—a unique blend of Southern gothic, blues music, and rich Black cultural history. Misty’s role is even woven into Sinners as the “red ballerina,” a character who pays homage to her iconic Firebird costume.
To enhance the experience, Misty wore a costume designed by Geoffrey Holder for the landmark 1982 production of Firebird at the Dance Theatre of Harlem. This design carries a sankofa symbol from the Akan people of Ghana, symbolizing the importance of learning from the past to create a brighter future. As Robert Garland, the artistic director of Dance Theatre of Harlem, explains, it’s a powerful reminder of the connection between history and culture.
In recent years, ballet has gained more attention in mainstream media. According to a 2021 survey by the National Endowment for the Arts, participation in ballet classes surged by 25%. Social media has played a big role, with platforms like Instagram showcasing dancers and performances to a massive audience.
Misty’s performance at the Oscars not only celebrated her art but also sparked conversations about the role of ballet in contemporary culture. As viewers respond on social media, it’s clear that ballet can resonate deeply, connecting history, culture, and modern storytelling in exciting ways.
In a world that constantly evolves, moments like these remind us how art can bridge generations and communicate vital cultural narratives.
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