The ballet world is in mourning following the unexpected passing of Michaela Mabinty DePrince, a talented dancer with the Boston Ballet and featured in the documentary “First Position.” She died at the young age of 29.

Originally an orphan in Sierra Leone, DePrince was adopted by an American family, which allowed her to pursue her passion for dance in the U.S. She studied at the American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Ballet and began her professional career with the Dance Theatre of Harlem in 2012. Later, she performed with the Dutch National Ballet before becoming a principal soloist with the Boston Ballet in 2021.

News of her death was shared on her official Instagram account, where her team expressed their heartbreak. They commemorated her artistry and the profound impact she had on many lives, stating, “Michaela’s journey was filled with grace, resolve, and purpose. Her dedication to her craft, her humanitarian efforts, and her ability to overcome immense challenges will continue to inspire us all.” They remembered her as a symbol of hope, illustrating that beauty and resilience can emerge from the most difficult circumstances.

Michaela DePrince:

‘Never be afraid to be a poppy in a field of daffodils.’

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