When the School of American Ballet invited SAB/New York City Ballet alum to guest teach, MoBBallet thought it was a perfect opportunity to have a conversation with her, and 4 African American students who are literally following in her footsteps. Our conversation (presented in 3 parts) was so interesting.  They offer us a glimpse into the rarefied world of the SAB.  New York City Ballet and by extension is known for being less than diverse, and not resembling the multiracial citizens it represents. Well the School of American Ballet is the direct pipeline to the company, and the only place Artistic Director Peter Martins chooses dancers from. Recognizing that in order for the company to look differently the student body would have to change.

The day I walked into the building to shoot this conversation I was happy to see a goodly number of little brown girls and boys waiting to take class. Where the numbers thin out at the upper levels, SAB is diligently laying the ground work to make certain in the coming years that will change, but you don’t have to take my word for it listen to the ladies that are living their dream.

Want More check out Part 3