Legacy of Grace

Renowned ballet dancer Michaela DePrince, who tragically passed away in September at 29, left an indelible mark on both the world of ballet and popular culture. Not only did she rise from a war-torn childhood to global stardom, but she also captured the attention of megastar Beyoncé, who handpicked her for a role in the visual album Lemonade.

DePrince, originally from Sierra Leone and adopted at the age of 4, became a star in the ballet community with her grace, strength, and resilience. Her appearance in Lemonade remains one of her most memorable public moments, where she self-choreographed a ballet routine, showcasing her talent. Beyoncé herself praised DePrince, calling her “a creature from another planet.”

Reflecting on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, DePrince told The Wall Street Journal, “She walked up to me and said, ‘It’s such an honor to have you here.’” The encounter left DePrince “on cloud nine,” a testament to the deep mutual respect between the dancer and the iconic singer.

Following her collaboration with Beyoncé, DePrince’s career soared. She became a principal dancer with the Boston Ballet, achieving heights that few in the ballet world reach. Her untimely death at just 29 shocked the ballet community and beyond. Tributes from fellow dancers, including Misty Copeland, poured in, with Copeland noting that DePrince “had so much more to give, not just to ballet, but to the world.”