The Swans of Harlem: Fifty years of sisterhood, five black ballerinas, one incredible story

A book about ballet, the enduring allure of ballet for young girls, and how these pioneers broke into a world that was closed to them and changed ideas of what a classical dancer could be. It also tells the universal story of female friendship and how these five young women formed a bond that still endures many decades later.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2024
Publisher: Bonnier Books Ltd

For fans of Hidden Figures and The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, this captivating book delves into the rich tapestry of history, offering a captivating journey that will transport readers to a bygone era. Written by Misty Copeland, a renowned ballet dancer and author, the book paints a vivid portrait of Harlem in 1969, a time of immense social and political upheaval following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. At the forefront of this narrative is Arthur Mitchell, the trailblazing Black principal dancer at the New York City Ballet, who embarks on a courageous protest by establishing the Dance Theatre of Harlem.

This captivating book weaves together a group biography, capturing the lives and achievements of five extraordinary women who played pivotal roles in the Dance Theatre of Harlem. It explores the enduring allure of ballet for young girls, as well as the challenges and barriers these pioneers faced in breaking into a predominantly white and male-dominated field. The book delves into the heart-breaking impact of the AIDS epidemic, which claimed the lives of many male dancers, leaving a profound void in the world of ballet. It also sheds light on racism and activism through art, highlighting the powerful messages conveyed through the performances of the Dance Theatre of Harlem.

Beyond the realm of ballet, the book delves into the eternal glamour of these swans, who graced the grandest opera houses, theaters, and even the White House. Their fans included iconic figures such as Mick Jagger, and they performed alongside legends like Michael Jackson and Josephine Baker. However, what sets this book apart is its focus on female friendship, particularly the bond that formed between these five young women. Despite their diverse backgrounds and experiences, they shared a common passion for ballet and a deep understanding of the challenges they faced as women in a male-dominated industry.

Through their experiments with dying ballet shoes and tights to match their skin tones, they forged a bond that has endured for many decades. Their story serves as a testament to the power of female companionship and the enduring legacy of their contributions to the world of ballet.

In conclusion, for fans of Hidden Figures and The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, this book offers a captivating and inspiring journey into the history of ballet and the remarkable lives of five extraordinary women. It provides a window into a bygone era, showcasing the resilience, talent, and perseverance of these pioneers as they broke barriers and changed the course of history. Through their stories, we are reminded of the power of art to inspire, uplift, and unite people, and the enduring legacy of female friendship and camaraderie.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 240 x 163 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786582492