Trailblazing ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince passes away at 29

The ballet world is mourning the untimely passing of Michaela Mabinty DePrince, a trailblazing ballerina who left an indelible mark on the art form during her brief yet impactful career. DePrince, who passed away at the age of 29, was not only celebrated for her extraordinary talent and grace but also for her inspiring life story. Born in Sierra Leone during a time of civil unrest, she faced numerous adversities, including the loss of her parents and severe health issues. However, through resilience and determination, she overcame these challenges to become an international ballet star.

DePrince's journey from a war-torn country to the prestigious stages of major ballet companies exemplifies perseverance. She gained recognition after being featured in the documentary "First Position," which showcased young dancers striving for success in ballet competitions. Her story resonated with many as she became a symbol of hope and empowerment for marginalized communities within the arts. DePrince’s influence extended beyond dance; she actively advocated for diversity within ballet and inspired countless young dancers from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue their dreams.

Born Mabinty Bangura in Sierra Leone, DePrince was sent to an orphanage aged three, after both of her parents died in the country’s civil war. At the orphanage, she experienced mistreatment and malnourishment, she told the Associated Press in 2012.

“I lost both my parents, so I was there [the orphanage] for about a year and I wasn’t treated very well because I had vitiligo,” she said at the time. “We were ranked as numbers, and number 27 was the least favorite and that was my number, so I got the least amount of food, the least amount of clothes and whatnot.”

The ballet standout danced in Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” musical film (2016) and starred in the 2021 film “Coppelia,” which mixes live-action dancing and animation.

DePrince, born Mabinty Bangura in Kenema, Sierra Leone, was adopted by when she was 4 by Elaine DePrince and Charles DePrince of Cherry Hill, New Jersey after her parents died in the Sierra Leone Civil War.

Boston Ballet also issued a statement honoring DePrince on Friday. "We’re sending our love and support to the family of Michaela Mabinty DePrince at this time of loss," the company said, adding, "We were so fortunate to know Mabinty; she was a beautiful person, a wonderful dancer, and she will be greatly missed by us."

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Sarah H

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