Unveiling Misty Copeland’s Revolutionary Role in Romeo & Juliet Performance

Misty Copeland and Calvin Royal III are poised to make history this spring. They will become the first African American dancers to assume the title roles in Kenneth MacMillan’s iconic ballet, Romeo and Juliet, with the American Ballet Theatre (ABT).
Historic Performance of Misty Copeland and Calvin Royal III
This groundbreaking performance features Misty Copeland, 37, as Juliet and Calvin Royal III, 31, as Romeo. Their debut in these pivotal roles represents a significant milestone, emphasizing their cultural impact within the world of ballet.
Background of the Production
- Choreographer: Kenneth MacMillan
- First Performance: 1965 at London’s Royal Opera House
- Music Composer: Sergei Prokofiev
- Original Performance Notables: Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn
- Curtain Calls: 43 on opening night
The Complexity of Their Roles
Juliet’s character demands both technical skill and emotional depth. The role encapsulates her evolution from a naive teenager to a young woman immersed in love and passion. Copeland has expressed that playing Juliet is her favorite role, viewing it as a lived experience beyond rehearsals.
Royal shares a connection to the role of Romeo, reminiscing about his childhood aspirations. Training at the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School at ABT, he recalls watching seasoned performers and dreaming of one day stepping into Romeo’s shoes.
Support from ABT’s Artistic Director
Kevin McKenzie, ABT’s artistic director and a renowned Romeo from the 1980s, has weighed in on the challenges faced by both dancers. He acknowledges the physical demands of the role, stating, “The role is a huge physical challenge and takes confidence because stamina is an issue.” McKenzie believes that Royal is fully prepared for this iconic character.
Inspiring Future Generations
As Copeland and Royal prepare for their historic performances in Romeo and Juliet, they aim to inject a fresh perspective into these classic roles. Their partnership not only represents progress in ballet but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of dancers. Both artists are determined to leave a lasting legacy in the world of performance art.