Black Ballerinas: Debra Austin

Debra Austin is the perfect example of persevering despite doubt. Thank you for paving the way for dancers like me💜 #blackballerinas
I carry with me the courage of dancers like the great Debra Austin who remind us that with hard work, talent, and dedication, we can all have a place in ballet.
#MistyCopeland #Ballerina

[@MRHSD]

Thank you for bringing her achievement to my attention. I look forward to learning more.

[@rivermountain7315]

I used to go to New York City Ballet just to watch her. Her jump was incredible and she stood out amongst a roster of talented ballerinas not only because she is black and very beautiful but because she was an awesomely inspiring artist. Thank you Misty for doing us very proud in bringing this information out and not letting it be covered up as so much beauty involving us is. Lydia Abraca, former principal ballerina of the Dance Theatre of Harlem should be next. Thank you!

[@stephaniej6317]

Wow her form is impeccable

[@obinnamorton773]

What beautiful dancing, her quality. Thanks for sharing, will add her to the list on my journey.

[@healthsurge-sg9vo]

Breath taking! The precision of her dancing is beyond lovely and altogether inspiring! Karen C.

[@vanessaschoettle3380]

New subscriber: I am a Grandma and a farmer here in Ohio. My Grandmother (born 1910) was a champion Charleston dancer. I am absolutely obsessed with dancing but a hip disease (Legg Perthes) prevented any pursuit of a career. However, I love the Arts and never will cease being fascinated!❤

[@TheRedmom52]

She’s beautiful and eloquent

[@lydwinaofschiedam2685]

Really interesting! Thanks for highlighting her.

[@sandra-jones]

We persevere... Thank you for posting this.

[@dubulvr]

Wow ! Thanks for teaching us about her legacy !!! 🤩🫶🏾

[@lullysmommyify]

Absolutely beautiful and breathtaking

[@annefitz7346]

I got Dance Magazine for over 30 years and sadly I do not recall this gorgeous dancer. Thank you for this series.

[@beverlysessum]

Thank you for this..please give more on the black ballerinas.

[@ilenebrooks1814]

THANK you for another history lesson 🙏🙏❤❤❤

[@pamelakahrer4432]

I did not know about this. Thank You! 🩰🩰

[@geraldinegranado3386]

That's drive! I gave up gymnastics, cello, & engineering because of raciests. Oh well, life is still good. It's a delight seeing others who do make it despite evil people.

[@nellieken]

I love this series

[@susanwhitfield8251]

Awesome

[@cookiekiller8563]

I love the way she jumps it's almost like she is floating and her lines are fabulous and full of artistryahsb

[@lizziewalker9374]

Thank you for posting this! I was kid when she was dancing in Philly. Oh how I would have loved to see her dance in person. She is exquisite!

[@tarantellalarouge7632]

It is possible to see her on YT videos when she was dancing the Balanchine choreographies with NYB

[@JohannyVeigaviolin]

The time when being good was above race and color she was just the best one

[@Boogledigs]

What a beautifully expressive dancer.

[@analuizasalles9035]

love this series! what’s the name of the background song??

[@stephaniej6317]

Please share facts and your opinions on Balanchine

[@carmenm8521]

Some days ago my teacher told us how some 20 years ago the ex director of the mexican ballet company fired all brown colored ballerinas. I was so upset that i want to sue her even when it doesn’t have anything to with me 😅

[@HombreDeLaNorte]

So, color is of paramount importance?

[@Josie-6]

Only someone who has never faced racism would ask such a silly question. Black ballerinas are regularly discriminated against, so yes, it is important.