#African-American ballerina

[nappy-by-nature]

Beauty & Strength

[importantwomensbirthdays]

Stephanie Dabney

Stephanie Dabney was born in 1958 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dabney joined the Dance Theater of Harlem at the age of 16. She would become a principal dancer at the company and an international star who inspired young Black dancers. Dabney built an impressive repertoire with the Dance Theater of Harlem, and became known for her dramatic characterizations as well as her flexibility, technique, and elegance. In 1982, she gave her breakout performance as the title character in a reinterpretation of Stravinsky's "The Firebird". Dabney went on to perform this role around the world. In 1990, she was diagnosed with HIV, but continued to perform with the Dance Theater of Harlem until 1994.

Stephanie Dabney died in 2022 at the age of 64.

[everynowndthen]

“Valued” by Brittnee Lavender

www.cityandflowercollage.com

cityandflowercollage.etsy.com

[feminoiredesigns]

Black Ballet Dancer Sitting With Sunflowers and Pumpkins

Zazzle

[nappy-by-nature]

Ballerina Beauty #2

[msfandomsblog]

Alastor x fem!ballerina-reader

This is my first alastor x reader fic! I don't know how many parts imma make but it will be somewhat a slow burn.

Also this is mostly your backstory

Hope you enjoy!

warnings: use of y/n, being laughed at, implied death, blood, readers insane like Al, guns, suicide, kinda short anddddddd yeah

In life you were one of the greatest pointe dancer in the world. In death, eh, not so much. Yes you danced but this was simple practice, hell wasn't exactly known for its refined~ practice. Your demon form was simple, you were tall (charlie sized) pale and had small wings on your back. Swan wings, that you could enlarge in and out at your will, not that you usually needed to. You mostly had them compact to your back. Most of your friends wondered why you were in hell to begin with, you were always civil to most characters. There was ofc the off-hand time where you'd threaten any demon who'd dare touch you or close friends, but... who's keeping count!?

As for the reason why you were there well... yes being a dancer had its purks but, it had just as many faults.

More then once at a young age in life you were cast for the villain rolls of dances, plays, etc.

You asked you teachers why and their answer was always, "the way you play it y/n! your body language, face and being on stage! you just do it so well"

As you progressed through as an actress and dancer you were never the 'princess' or the main heroin. Only the dark, cold villain. The black swan, The mouse king, Maleficent. How you longed to be the beauty and not the beast.

Not only did this anger you but soon after a while many other dancers would avoid you because of your 'villain' demeanor on stage. This caused you to grow a hatred for your fellows. It all became too much one day.

It was dress rehearsal, your last one before your last show, and the boys got a wise idea for a prank to play on their black swan. When rehearsing your first entrance you moved over to stage right when suddenly a type of slime/glue pored on you, burning your eyes and ruining your clothes. Then the lead boy shot what looked like a party popper at you but instead of confetti, landed black feathers. The boys were on hunched over laughing, 'childish' you thought while glaring at them.

Every other dancer turned their heads or ran over to see what was oh so funny. Once they all started laughing or turned their head to hide smiles, the director yelled at them all, "oi! that's enough, this isn't a baby recital that you did when you were 5! this isn't mature! Boys, help y/n and run 40 laps around the stage ey?" But it was too late, you'd decided right then and there.

So they saw you as the villain hm? You'd be happy to oblige.

The next day you played your part amazingly well but it was your next audition that excited you. It was for the seasonal part in the nutcracker. As always you were given the part, The mouse king.

When you met the lead playing Clara, the young girl heroin, you saw she was a perfectly civil young dancer. She met her end quickly enough tho.

When you came around to auditioning for The Sleeping Beauty and once again did not get Aurora, you found it quite enjoyable to get rid of the blonde broad that played her.

Then there was Romeo and Juliet. you never did audition for this one, reasons unknown to you. But when you did you somehow found that you felt no sadness you got the email saying that you didn't get the part of Juliet. You instead found joy when you cracked a wide smile as the blood of the girl who did get the part flowed down your hands.

Pretty thing she was, good dancer too. poor thing. ah well.

After about 3 years of of getting away with this little 'hobby; of yours you were found out and surrounded by a large S.W.A.T team. The team leader spoke softly to you.

"Miss y/n, please put your hands up, and drop the gun."

You were so annoyed by this, you'd had to use the damn thing to kill a small African-american girl who was playing Coopelia. You didn't like using guns but this was supposed to be quick. You'd even bought a silencer for the job.

"No officer, I don't think I will." You said back. you smiled as you turned to face the 20 guns pointed at you.

"You won't make it out alive L/n" He said trying to convince you.

"I don't plan on it," And smiling you flipped them off as you shot the gun at your own neck.

OKKKKKKK that was part 1! I hope ya'll like it and stay tuned. I don't know if you could tell but I am ballet dancer, I'm not professional yet but I know quite a bit.

y/n might be oc just a warning but again my first fic sooooo.

Anyway!!!!!! have a good day/night little humans!

part 2!

[cartermagazine]

Today In History

Janet Collins broke color barriers in the 1950s when she became the first African American prima ballerina and one of the very few prominent black women in American classical ballet.

Collins was born in New Orleans, LA, on this date March 7, 1917, and today we are honored to share a glimpse into the life of a crucial figure in ballet history.

Ms. Collins made her debut as the leading dancer in the Met’s production of “Aïda.” She went on to become the first African American prima ballerina with the Metropolitan Opera. Ms. Collins was also a member of SAB’s guest faculty, teaching modern dance classes at the School from 1949-1950 and then again from 1967-1969.

“Everything was clear. But the speed with which Janet Collins moved was unbelievable,” said Arthur Mitchell an American dancer, choreographer, and director who was the first African American to become a principal dancer with a major ballet troupe, New York City Ballet. He later cofounded the Dance Theatre of Harlem.

“There was a wonderful feeling of flight all the time, but not flight to get away, flight to move. And she really reveled in the movement, she reveled in the movement. And as Balanchine said, ‘a dance is movement through time and space.’ She was the embodiment of that when she danced.”

CARTER™️ Magazine

[sidneyb16]

Sims 4 Pack Ideas

Made with AI

Step into the world of beauty and grace

Paris Inspired World: Picture cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and the Eiffel Tower peeking through the skyline. Sims can explore iconic landmarks like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Montmartre.

Ballet Academy: A prestigious ballet school where toddlers, kids, and teens can learn ballet moves, practice routines, and attend recitals.

Seine River: Sims can take romantic boat rides along the Seine River, inspired by the City of Love.

Street Performances: Set up outdoor stages for impromptu ballet performances in public squares.

Careers and Skills:

Professional Ballet Dancer: Sims can audition for ballet companies, perform in shows, and rise through the ranks.

Choreographer: Create original dance routines and teach them to other Sims.

Costume Designer: Design stunning tutus, leotards, and ballet shoes.

Ballet Skill: Learn various dance styles (classical, contemporary, and even breakdance) and improve technique.

Activities and Events:

Ballet Recitals: Host grand recitals at the Opera Garnier or other theaters. Invite Sims to watch your dancers shine.

Promenade dans le Jardin: Stroll through beautiful French gardens, where Sims can practice ballet moves amidst blooming flowers.

Masquerade Ball: Attend a masked ball, twirling in elegant gowns and tuxedos.

Ballet Competitions: Compete against other dancers for trophies and recognition.

Build/Buy and Create-a-Sim:

Ballet Studio: Decorate with barres, mirrors, and sprung floors.

French-Inspired Furniture: Rococo chairs, wrought iron beds, and ornate chandeliers.

Tutus, Tights, and Pointe Shoes: Dress your Sims in ballet attire.

Eiffel Tower Sculpture: A decorative landmark for your home.

Occult and Hidden Secrets:

Ballet Spirits: Encounter ethereal ballet spirits who guide Sims toward greatness.

Secret Underground Dance Club: A mysterious venue where Sims can dance until dawn.

Starring...

1. Margot Fonteyn:

A prima ballerina with elegance and grace. She could be the director of the Paris Ballet Company.

Special Trait: "Poise" – Margot maintains her composure even under pressure.

2. Rudolf Nureyev:

A charismatic male dancer known for his leaps and passion. He could be the resident choreographer.

Special Trait: "Dramatic Flair" – Rudolf adds drama to every performance.

3. Misty Copeland:

A trailblazing African-American ballerina. She could run a community dance studio.

Special Trait: "Inspiring Mentor" – Misty motivates young dancers to follow their dreams.

4. Vaslav Nijinsky:

A legendary Russian dancer and choreographer. He might appear as a mysterious, otherworldly figure.

Special Trait: "Timeless Artistry" – Vaslav's moves defy the laws of physics.

5. Anna Pavlova:

The iconic swan queen. She could haunt the Opera Garnier, inspiring aspiring dancers.

Special Trait: "Ethereal Presence" – Anna leaves a trail of feathers wherever she goes.

The Ballet Festival

1. Grand Opening Gala

The festival kicks off with a dazzling gala at the Opera Garnier. Sims arrive in their finest attire, and the night is filled with performances, champagne, and mingling.

Dress Code: Elegant gowns, tuxedos, and ballet-inspired outfits.

2. Ballet Workshops

Throughout the festival, Sims can attend workshops led by famous dancers. Learn pirouettes, jetés, and graceful moves.

Unlock New Dance Styles: Sims can master contemporary, neoclassical, and character dance.

3. Street Performances

Parisian streets come alive with impromptu ballet shows. Gather a crowd, set up a portable stage, and watch your Sims pirouette under the stars.

Collect Tips: Passersby drop Simoleons into the tip jar.

4. Costume Parade

A whimsical parade where Sims dress as their favorite ballet characters. Swan queens, Nutcracker soldiers, and firebird dancers march through the city.

Special Trait: “Ballet Enthusiast” – Sims who participate gain a boost in dance skill.

5. Ballet Bazaar

Stalls selling ballet-themed merchandise: tutus, pointe shoes, ballet posters, and more.

Collectible Posters: Hang them in your Sims’ homes for inspiration.

6. Midsummer Night’s Dream Ball

Inspired by Shakespeare’s play, this masquerade ball takes place in a moonlit garden. Sims waltz, tango, and cha-cha.

Hidden Quest: Find the elusive fairy king and queen for special rewards.

7. Closing Performance at Versailles Gardens

The festival concludes with a breathtaking ballet performance at the Palace of Versailles. Sims dance amidst fountains and manicured hedges.

Legendary Dancers Return: Margot Fonteyn, Rudolf Nureyev, and others take the stage.

Enchanted Ballet Music Box

Acquiring the Music Box

Sims can find the music box at antique shops, hidden in attics, or as a rare gift from the ballet spirits.

Special Trait: “Curious Collector” – Sims who love rare artifacts are drawn to it.

2. Unlocking Dances

When Sims wind the delicate key, the music box plays a hauntingly beautiful melody.

Each tune corresponds to a secret dance style: waltz, tango, or even a mystical moonlight pas de deux.

As Sims listen, they learn new dance moves.

3. Performing Secret Dances

Sims can now perform these hidden dances:

Moonlit Waltz: Under the full moon, Sims twirl gracefully, leaving shimmering trails behind.

Whispering Tango: A sultry dance that ignites passion and intrigue.

Stardust Pas de Deux: Two Sims become celestial partners, floating weightlessly.

Performing these dances boosts mood and skill levels.

Post Show Celebrations

Backstage Tea Party:

Invite fellow dancers, instructors, and family members to a cozy backstage tea party.

Serve delicate pastries, macarons, and chamomile tea.

Share stories and laughter while still in costume.

Autograph Session:

Set up a signing table near the theater exit.

Sims sign autographs for fans, especially young aspiring dancers.

Special Trait: “Fan Favorite” – Sims gain fame and popularity.

Post-Performance Photoshoot:

Hire a photographer to capture stunning shots of Sims in their costumes.

Strike elegant poses against the theater backdrop or under twinkling lights.

Ballet Barre Toast:

Gather at the ballet barre for a celebratory toast.

Raise glasses of sparkling cider or champagne.

Special Trait: “Graceful Toastmaster” – Sims give heartfelt speeches.

Floral Crowns and Bouquets:

Create flower crowns for each dancer using fresh blooms.

Gift bouquets to fellow performers as a token of appreciation.

Special Trait: “Floral Enthusiast” – Sims arrange flowers beautifully.

Midnight Dance by Moonlight:

Head to a secluded garden or rooftop.

Dance under the moon, with soft music playing.

Special Trait: “Moonlit Muse” – Sims feel inspired and creative.

Ballet Bar Hopping:

Visit local bars and taverns in tutus and tights.

Order mocktails named after famous ballets.

Dance on tabletops (gracefully, of course!).

Fireworks Finale:

Host a private fireworks display near the theater.

Sims watch in awe as colorful sparks light up the night sky.

Hidden Trait: Balletic Grace

Balletic Grace:

Sims with this trait move with unparalleled elegance and poise.

Positive Effects:

Graceful Movements: Sims perform everyday actions (walking, sitting, even cooking) with balletic flair.

Inspiring Aura: Nearby Sims receive a mood boost when in the presence of a balletic grace Sim.

Improved Dance Skill: Sims learn dance moves faster and execute them flawlessly.

Negative Quirk:

Perfectionist: Balletic grace Sims are meticulous. They may take longer to complete tasks due to their attention to detail.

Elysian Ballet Gardens

Elysian Ballet Gardens:

Description: Nestled on the outskirts of Paris, the Elysian Ballet Gardens exude timeless elegance and ethereal beauty. Here, the air is infused with the delicate scent of blooming roses, and every step feels like a dance.

Iconic Features:

Rose Arboretum: A sprawling garden filled with vibrant roses of every hue. Sims can practice ballet moves amidst the fragrant petals.

Moonlit Gazebo: A romantic gazebo where dancers rehearse under the moon’s gentle glow. It’s said that the spirits of legendary ballerinas visit here at midnight.

Lily Pond: Sims can pirouette on the water’s edge, their reflections shimmering like ripples in the pond.

Statue of Terpsichore: The muse of dance stands at the heart of the gardens, inspiring all who pass by.

Hidden Pathways: Explore winding paths that lead to secret nooks—a hidden swing, a secluded bench, or a fountain adorned with cherubs.

Ballet Spirits’ Grove: A mystical grove where Sims may encounter the spirits of ballet legends, seeking guidance or sharing secrets.

Seasonal Changes: In spring, cherry blossoms carpet the ground; in winter, frost-kissed roses add a touch of magic.

Ballet Barre Stations: Set up along the pathways, inviting Sims to stretch and practice their pliés.

Enchanted Fountain: Toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish for dance success.

Outdoor Theater: The grand stage where recitals and performances take place. The audience sits on velvet cushions, surrounded by blooming flowers.

Romantic Landmarks

Proposals at the Eiffel Tower: Sims can climb to the top for a romantic moment and propose with a picturesque Parisian backdrop.

Parisian Patisseries: Sims can visit patisseries to buy or learn to bake French delicacies like macarons, éclairs, and croissants.

Wedding Venues with Parisian Charm: Offer customizable wedding venues with classic Parisian architecture, outdoor terraces, and views of the Eiffel Tower.

Apartments and Hotels: Introduce elegant French-style apartments and boutique hotels with intricate balconies and romantic interiors.

Parisian Street Performances: Include mime artists, violinists, and painters adding to the immersive ambiance.

Romantic Walks by the Seine: A new interaction where Sims can take leisurely walks along the Seine River or share a kiss on a scenic bridge.

[lboogie1906]

Michaela Mabinty DePrince (Mabinty Bangura; January 6, 1995 – September 10, 2024) was a ballet dancer, currently dancing with the Boston Ballet. She rose to fame after starring in the documentary First Position in 2011, following her and other young ballet dancers as they prepared to compete at the Youth America Grand Prix. With her adoptive mother, Elaine DePrince, she authored the book Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina. She danced with the Dance Theatre of Harlem as the youngest dancer in the history of the company and was a former soloist with the Dutch National Ballet. She was a goodwill ambassador with the Dutch organization War Child, based in Amsterdam.

Born into a Muslim family, she grew up as an orphan in Sierra Leone after her uncle brought her to an orphanage during the civil war. Her adoptive parents were told that her father was shot and killed by the Revolutionary United Front when she was three years old and that her mother starved to death soon after.

In 1999, she and another girl were adopted by Elaine and Charles DePrince, a couple from Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and taken to the US.

She trained as a ballet dancer, performing at the Youth America Grand Prix among other competitions. She trained in classical ballet at The Rock School for Dance Education in Philadelphia. Concurrent with intense ballet training, she took online classes through Keystone National High School, where she earned her high school diploma. She graduated from the American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School in New York. Her professional debut performance was in the role of Gulnare in Mzansi Productions and the South African Ballet Theatre’s premiere of Le Corsaire on July 19, 2012.

In 2015 MGM acquired the film rights to her book Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina. In 2018 MGM announced that Madonna will direct Taking Flight, a biopic on her life and career.

In 2021, she joined the Boston Ballet as a second soloist. She danced the leading role in Coppelia. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[padawan-historian]

How do the memories and magic of children disrupt and upRoot the histories we tell ourselves? How do children navigate spaces of oppression and liberation? How do they find joy and hope in places that were not created for them to exist? They live.

(1) Portrait of two young Jackson girls in wrinkled, informal wear. Potentially the descendants of emancipated Virginian Bethany Veney, who authored a narrative of her life in slavery and went on to own three houses in Worcester's Beaver Brook neighborhood (1900)

(2) Three sister dressed in matching outfits (and shoes). The center girl holds a favorite object close, perhaps a record album (1926)

(3) Florence Jones (in white dress with large bow) and a friend swing on a family hammock in Lincoln, Nebraska (1915-1920)

(4) Students at the Harry Prampin School Recital in Harlem (1927)

(5) Washington, D.C. Young boy standing in the doorway of his home on Seaton Road in the northwest section. His leg was cut off by a streetcar while he was playing in the street (1942)

(6) A girl and her dog pose in a New York studio (1921)

(7) Ho-Chunk cousins Carrie Elksit (ENooKah) and Annie Lowe Lincoln (Red Bird) wearing elaborate beaded necklaces and earrings. Carrie (left) was the afroindigenous daughter of Lucie Elk, while Annie (right), was the daughter of King of Thunder in Black River Valley (1940)

(8) Ms. Ruby dons her Pullman maid’s uniform and and poses next to a young girl in Stafford County, Virginia (1904-1918)

(9) Eileen Buckner poses with her grandfather Anthony T. Buckner, who was born enslaved and would go on to be one the most respected merchants in the Charlottesville. Eileen's father, George W. Buckner, would go on to write the New Negro manifesto in 1921

(10) A girl smiles wide as she milks a cow (1934–1956)

(11) A young child plays the phonograph in his family cabin located at the Transylvania Project in Louisiana (1939)

(12) Two brown skinned girls pose in matching dresses near the center of their classroom picture in front of Lincoln High School, Nebraska (around 1919)

(13)  A young sharecropper lays out on his attic bed in New Madrid County, Missouri (1938)

(14) Chris Easterling (left) and George Mashatt learn how to signal when they want the bus to stop in Ann Arbor (June 1975)

(15) A little girl watches the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with her family in New York (1946)

(16) Little ballerinas dance at the Frederick Douglass housing project located in Anacostia, D.C. (1942)

(17) Integrated summer activities at Camp Nathan Hale in Southfields, New York where children learned different skills, like first aid, under the guidance of the Methodist Camp Service (1943)

(18) A young girl smiles at her feline friend; notice the ribbon on the cat's neck (1925)

(19) Children stand in a line to pose during their candy eating competition W.E.B. DuBois' Brownies Book

Sources: Worcester Art Museum, James Van Der Zee Collection, Library of Congress, Harris & Ewing, Leslie Jones Collection, Boston Public Library, National Museum of African American History and Culture

[nappy-by-nature]

On Pointe

[havlasha]

Prima Ballerina Assolutas

I was reading Maya Plisetskaya’s autobiography (great read!) and it got me thinking. I still find it sad that the phrase “Assoluta” has sort of been laid to rest. Originally designated to Pierina Legnani by Marius Petipa to describe, who he felt, was “The leading dancer in all of Europe”. Although, it was never a refined system and a good chunk of the few designated Primas with the title are disputed/unofficial. Petipa himself formally objected to Kschessinska being awarded the title (one of many petty feuds between the prima and the ballet master. Honestly 1800s Mariinsky troupe drama is so entertaining I could go on all day about it) But it adds a level of prestige, in a world of so many companies both national & regional. It’s certainly a shame that certain dancers never got the honour awarded to them, despite being the greatest heralded (and in demand) dancers of their eras (think Sylvie Guillem, Ulyana Lopatkina, Darcey Bussel). The only still dancing assoluta left is Alessandra Ferri and she is slowly fading out, especially with her new role at the Weiner Staatsoper. 

As far as current Primas with the potential for the title, I really think Zakharova could have easily been awarded one by now. It’s a shame that her long-standing controversial political associations have likely hindered any potential for that sort of honour internationally. Just for her sheer presence in the dance world I can’t think of another dancer who holds such a grip on what is considered a “prima”. In talent terms, Osipova should be up there too for her contributions to the world of flying. 

Anyway: here’s some photos of the currently recognised Prima Ballerina Assolutas:

Pierina Lagnani - Italian - Mariinsky Ballet

Mathilda Kschessinska - Russian - Mariinsky Ballet

Alicia Markova - British - ENB/ The Royal Ballet

Attilia Redice - Italian - Rome Opera Ballet 

Galina Ulanova - Russian - Bolshoi Ballet

Alicia Alonso - Cuban - Cuban National Ballet (Unofficial)

Maya Plisetskaya - Russian - Bolshoi Ballet

Eva Evdokimova - Bulgarian/American - Royal Danish Ballet (also unofficial/sanctioned - appointed by the Mariinsky)

Margot Fonteyn - British - Royal Ballet

Yvette Chauviré - French - Paris Opera Ballet

Anneli Alhanko - Swedish - Royal Swedish Ballet (appointed by the Bolshoi)

Phyllis Spira - South African - Royal Ballet/CAPAB Ballet

Alessandra Ferri - Italian - Royal Ballet/ABT/La Scala

[lotus-flower-writes-history]

The Unofficial Black History Book

Janet Collins (1917-2003)

The history of ballet began around the 1500s in Italy. The term "ballet" stems from the Italian word "Ballare," meaning to dance. When ballet was introduced to America in the early twentieth century, it was a new form of art. Unfortunately, African Americans couldn't be part of ballet culture for many years, saying that our bodies were wrong for ballet.

Until one woman broke one of the last major color barriers in classical ballet, 

This is her story.

Janet Faye Collins became the first African American prima ballerina and one of the very few prominent black women in American classical ballet. And the first black prima ballerina to perform with the Metropolitan Opera Ballet in New York City, New York.

She broke one of the last major color barriers in Classical Ballet.

Janet Collins was born on March 2, 1917, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Her mother was a seamstress, and her father was a tailor. They moved to Los Angeles, California, in 1921, when she was four years old.

She started taking private dancing lessons at a Catholic community center, and ironically, Collin's parents urged her to study painting rather than dance. Because at that time, art seemed to offer more opportunities to gifted African Americans than classical dance.

Collins studied art on a scholarship at Los Angeles City College and later at the Los Angeles Art Center School.

But she continued her dance training and attracted the attention of Adolph Bohm, Carmelita Maracci, and Mia Slavenska. All prominent dance instructors agreed to work with her. She continued her dance training with Carmelita Maracci, who was one of the few dance teachers at the time to accept black students.

At the age of 15, Janet prepared to audition for Leonide Massine and the De Basil Ballet Russe Company. The company was performing in Los Angeles during its American tour and advertised for an aspiring young dancer to audition for the company.

When it was Janet's turn, she was one of the best to audition. She moved with such beauty and grace that all the other ballerinas applauded her.

Massine saw her talent and accepted her into the company. But only under one condition...

He told her she would have to paint her face white for performances.

Going further into my notes, she was told that she would either need "special roles" created for her or dance with a white face to disguise the fact that she was black.

Collins left the audition in tears and vowed to perfect her art so that race would not be an issue.

In an exchange quoted in U.S. News & World Report, she responded, "I thought talent mattered, not color."

Collins found a cold reception in professional ballet, despite her training. However, she didn't let that set her back, and she continued to perform.

In the 1930s, when she was still in her teenage years, she performed as an adagio dancer in vaudeville productions.

In 1940, she became the principal dancer for the Los Angeles musical productions of "Run Little Chillun" and "The Mikado in Swing". At this time, she worked with the Katherine Dunham Dance Company.

In 1943, she performed in the musical film "Stormy Weather," and in 1946, she appeared in the film, "Thrill of Brazil."

In 1949, Collins made her New York debut after performing her own choreography on a shared program at the 92nd Street NY. In the same year, and after two more performances, Dance Magazine named her "The most outstanding debutante of the season."

Collins made her debut as a prima ballerina on November 3rd, 1948, at the Las Palmas Theater in Los Angeles, and critics praised her as a one-of-a-kind performer.

Zachary Solov, the Metropolitan Opera House's ballet master, noticed her in a Broadway production of Cole Porter's "Out of this World" in 1951. Solov then invited Collins to join the Metropolitan Company when she was 34.

November 13th, 1951: Collins broke a color barrier after her performance of ‘Aida'. She was the first African American prima ballerina with the Metropolitan Opera after a year of joining the Corps de Ballet. It marked the first time a black artist had joined the permanent company.

Unfortunately, Collins faced racism on the road as the company toured southern cities, despite her success in New York. 

She was kept off stage due to Race laws, and sometimes her parts were performed by understudies who were white.

She remained at the Met until 1954. She would then go on to tour across the United States and Canada. She then began teaching ballet, which included using dance in the rehabilitation of the handicapped.

She also taught at the School of American Ballet, the San Francisco Ballet School, and the Harkness House.

Janet retired from performing and teaching in 1974. She spent the last years of her life painting religious subjects in her studio in Seattle.

Janet Collins died on May 28th, 2003, in Fort Worth, Texas, at 86 years old.

Despite all that was thrown at her, Janet Collins made a legacy for herself by becoming the first African-American Prima ballerina with the Metropolitan Opera and breaking its color line. 

__

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The 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing

Next

Juneteenth

___

My Resources

[dear-indies]

Hi! I hope you are doing well! Do you have any suggestions for 21-23 y/o half white actress who could play a ballerina? Thank you!

Antonia Gentry (1997) Afro Jamaican / White.

Julia Rehwald (1997) Filipino / White.

Lauren Tsai (1998) Taiwanese / Polish, Italian, English, German, Irish.

Lisa Ambalavanar (1998) Indian / White.

Alina Boz (1998) Turkish / Russian.

Serena Motola (1998) Japanese / Italian.

Madison Pettis (1998) African-American / Irish, French, Italian.

Melisa Döngel (1999) Turkish / Russian.

Daniella Perkins (2000) African-American / White.

Ava Allan (2000) Egyptian Jewish / German, Irish, English.

Miray Akay (2000) Turkish / Ukrainian.

Jannine Weigel (2000) Thai / German.

Nancy Jewel McDonie (2000) Korean / Irish.

India Ria Amarteifio (2001) Ghanaian / German.

Minnie Mills (2002) Korean / White.

Here you go, I'm sorry I don't know many fcs in that specific age range!

[squeakyfir]

A small hostage (A night at the museum 2 X Child! Reader Fanfiction)

Description:

You, an eight year old child who was left behind on a school field trip gets locked inside the Smithsonian and are held hostage by wax figures of historical figures. Though one was cruel, the other's were a bit mean but they showed a bit of care. So much for being evil. There were questions that needed answers.

Will you live?

Will you die?

Will you see your family again?

Will you even remember this night?

Enjoy!

*I do not own the night at the museum movies. All rights to the characters and storylines belong to 20th Century Studios ™*

Chapter 4

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You had no choice. There was no way that Kahmunrah would watch over you. He despised you and also figured that the other men could watch you since there more eyes to keep on you. Probably the best option since your afraid to be around Kahmunrah. The other men didn't make you that nervous but you certainly knew they wouldn't hurt you. Capone and his men were probably the most trusted people right now.

Capone and his men kept searching everywhere for Mr. Daley. After mindless searching, the three leaders and their men... and you, all met in the archives to search in different buildings. You were still being dragged by the hand and you all came to a hallway that had an elevator just up ahead. They kept running and started getting in.

Surprisingly, you all got in the elevator and it started going up. The only thing to be heard was the elevator music. Everyone stayed silent and you were pressed up against the elevator door. This was extremely awkward. No one said a word.

Finally, the doors opened and you quickly jumped out. Napoleon shouted in his foreign language and pointed ahead. There was Mr. Daley and a woman near the moon rover and as soon as they heard Napoleon's shout, they started to run. Napoleon took your hand and you all started running but the running didn't last long since Capone had an idea.

"Alright fellas. Time for me to paint the town red". He shrugged off his big coat a bit dramatically and aimed his gun. You quickly snatched your hand away from Napoleon to cover your ears. But the loud muffled gun shots were never heard. You removed your hands from your ears only to hear Capone making gun shot sounds with his mouth. You looked up at Napoleon with a questioning look and he gave you that same look.

"What are you doing" asked Napoleon in a frantic way since Mr. Daley and the woman were getting further away. "Hush now little one. I'm taking them down, gangster style". He kept pretending to shoot his gun, acting as if he was shooting someone. "But you aren't doing anything. Your just pretending to do something, very slowly".

Capone sighed and said, "Ok, you hang onto french toast and you squeeze it tight. Here we go". You covered your ears again because you figured that Capone would really fire his gun again but still nothing. Capone made strange bullet fire sounds that almost resembled a machine gun. "Alvin, your a moron". You tried holding back your laugh but then Ivan said, "Your stupidity makes the hair on the back of my thighs stand up like a Russian ballerina".

You broke into laughter but when Capone gave you that look, you stopped laughing by covering your mouth. Capone just sent a small smile your way but then said to all of you, "Do I have to explain everything to you guys? Now look, each time I go 'guh', thats actually a bullet. Ok? So 'guh guh guh guh', is 'bullet bullet bullet bullet", the other men just went off to catch Mr. Daley and the woman, but they left you with Capone. "Come on boys". Capone then took your hand and ran to catch up.

You, Capone and his men finally caught up with the other's but were blocked by a bunch of African American men in aviation uniforms. "Out of our way" said Ivan.

"I don't think so" said one of the aviators. Just then you all heard a plane starting up and when you all looked over, Mr. Daley and the woman were on the Wright brothers plane about to escape. "They're getting away". All of the men tried getting through but they couldn't. It was Capone who quickly punched one of them first that led to the other's following his lead and attacked them.

You all finally got through and when you got onto the second floor, the plane was coming towards you. "KID"! Capone then dived at you and brought you down to the floor just before the plane struck you both. You were shocked but uninjured. "Kid, you ok" he asked as he picked you up. He looked extremely worried and you couldn't believe he did that. "I'm ok", you hugged him tightly, "thank you".

Capone smiled and returned your embrace. "Are you sure your ok"? You nodded and he put you down. The others came over and Ivan said, "Now what? We can't chase him down".

"If that guy came here and tried leaving in such a huge hurry, he might've gotten the combination already. Now I don't about you, but I'm pretty sure this place doesn't have a place all about Egypt". As Capone was talking, you saw a bunch of different Einstein bobble heads with small post it notes. You walked over to them and one of them noticed you. "Well hello there madame, how can we help you"?

"He got something here, I'm sure of it. Let's look around and see what we can find" said Capone. As he and the other's were about to start their search, it was Ivan who noticed your absence. "Where is the child"?

Capone looked around frantically but then saw you coming back with something in your hands. They all sighed in huge relief. "Why did you wander off" asked Napoleon.

"I got the combination".

They almost laughed but they saw that you weren't kidding around. "How did you get it"? You held up the small Einstein and said, "He knows it". Capone snatched the Einstein from you and said, "Tell me the combination".

"It's 3.14159265". Capone grinned and tossed the Einstein over him so one of his men could catch him. Without warning, Capone bomb rushed you and swung you around in an embrace. "You little genius. We won"!

You laughed in amusement and then said, "Won what"? Capone grinned and put you down and just ignored your question and curious gaze. "Let's go boys". You followed after them, unwilling. There was something you still didn't understand. Why would they want to rule the world and how would they do it anyways? It didn't make sense.

You stopped in your tracks and saw a space monkey looking at you. Capone, or anyone else, didn't have a grip on you, so you went over to the monkey and when you got closer, his tag read, 'Able'. "Hi Able". He made his small chirps and offered his small hand to you. You smiled and shook his hand. At that moment, Capone looked down to where you were supposed to be and stopped.

He quickly looked around to see if he could spot you, which caught the attention of everyone else. Capone then saw you with the monkey on your shoulder. His first course of action was to retrieve you but he had a memory that appeared in his mind. "She reminds me of my son. Curious, adventurous and... quiet".

"Quiet" asked Ivan.

"Yeah. My son was sometimes very quiet but mostly talked when someone talked to him. She's just like him, only a different gender". They all looked at him curiously. They could tell he was getting attached to you. Capone didn't want to admit it yet but since you remind him of his son, he was missing the days of when his son was around.

He wished his son was around to give him that feeling of happiness. But since your still here, he actually felt the same thing but it came from a different source. You. He was perplexed by this but it made sense to him if not the others. "(Y/n)".

You looked over and saw Capone motioning for you to come over. They all were waiting for you... patiently. You went over to them since Able left to go somewhere else. "Did you make a new friend" asked Napoleon.

"I guess"?

"Come on, dress boys waiting for us" said Capone.

Dress boy?

Oh crap... Kahmunrah.

What is he going to do?

Kill you? Hopefully not.

You tried to be brave but you felt your body shake in fear. Capone had your hand in his and instantly felt your body shake. He looked down at you and saw that you could barely walk. When Capone stopped, everyone noticed. "You two go on and wait for us, well be there in a second". Napoleon and Ivan understood and pressed on with their soldiers. Capone got down to your level and said in a warm tone of voice of voice, "What's wrong"?

"He's going to kill me. I know he will". Capone started to think whether or not he would but it started to make sense that he would. He would have no use for you as he was only using you as a hostage to make Mr. Daley work faster. Capone spoke softly to you and said, "I'm not letting anything happen to you. I promise. Right boys"? His other gangsters agreed but you weren't sure if he was telling the truth. You had little to no information about any of these men but you did know for a fact that Capone was a dangerous gangster.

"Come on. Let's not keep dress boy waiting" Capone said while standing up with your hand secured in his large hand. Capone was the one you felt the most comfortable with and he seemed to care deeply for you. Just as deeply as he felt with his son. That feeling was sinking deeper and deeper in his black heart. He couldn't explain why.

But you also couldn't explain why he was being protective. So many questions but with little time to have proper answers. Speaking of time, you didn't know what would happen and tried not to think about it since it only made you more nervous. But Capones grip on your small hand seemed to help. But why?

Perhaps we'll find out soon...

[fashionitforward]

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