Written by Betty Yu
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SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (KPIX) — Acclaimed ballerina Misty Copeland is making her way from stage to screen in a new short film. She is now in the limelight as an actor and producer of “Flower,” which was filmed and set in Oakland.
Copeland plays Rose, a dance teacher who supports her sick mother.
The two struggle to protect their home. Rose befriends street dancer Sterling, played by local talent Babatunji Johnson, and renews hope for the community’s future.
“We made this film for this community. We took the idea of classical ballet and what it could look like in modern times, focusing on the communities we think should be highlighted. “Not only are there issues that need to be addressed and highlighted, but we also need to focus on the beauty and texture of our communities and think through them,” Copeland told KPIX.
Copeland’s key issues include gentrification, inequality, the housing crisis, and homelessness.
“I want everyone to see something they can relate to or relate to, but ultimately I want to show the power of dance and movement,” she said.
Flower does it without dialogue.
Copeland, known as American Ballet Theater’s first black principal ballerina, said she was influenced by her own childhood experiences.
“I grew up in Los Angeles, California, and experienced homelessness for much of my childhood. When I started ballet at age 13, my family lived in motels,” Copeland said. “The community has given me hope, and I hope that this film shows that there is hope for the community of Oakland, California.”
When Copeland first started dancing, she also attended San Francisco Ballet’s summer intensive program. They provided her with her full scholarship, nurtured her and gave her opportunities.
Several young ballerinas from the San Francisco Ballet School came to a screening Sunday at the Brava Theater as part of the San Francisco Dance Film Festival.
“She’s number one. I’m a person of color who dances, and she’s such a great dancer that I really want to be like her someday,” said 13-year-old Alexa Ibelshoff.
“It’s such an inspiration to meet someone as famous as her,” added 12-year-old Colette Norman.
Copeland offered some advice for aspiring professional ballerinas and young people who feel alone in their endeavors.
“There are always other people going through similar experiences, and I think it’s important to not only remember that, but also look at the people in front of you,” Copeland said. Ta. “Whether it’s co-workers, friends, parents, teachers. And you have a support system around you.”
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