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Deep Dive: Black Ballerina (2016)

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Black Ballerina
BLACK BALLERINA tells the stories of black women in ballet across generations, focusing on figures like Joan Myers Brown, Delores Browne, and Raven Wilkinson. These dancers faced racism and exclusion while pursuing their dreams in a predominantly white field. The film contrasts their experiences with those of contemporary dancers of color, who still confront significant barriers in ballet today. The narrative moves between past and present, illustrating the ongoing discussion about race, inclusion, and opportunity in American society. By featuring personal accounts and historical context, the film emphasizes the progress made and the work still needed to achieve equality in the arts.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Joan Myers Brown and her fight against ballet racism.
  • •Find out how young dancers of color face modern barriers.
  • •See the impact of race on ballet over six decades.

Did You Know

•Joan Myers Brown, Delores Browne, and Raven Wilkinson faced racism in ballet six decades ago.
•The film features Raven Wilkinson, a notable black ballerina.
•The documentary has a runtime of 54 minutes.

Perfect For

Ballet enthusiastsSocial justice advocatesDocumentary fans