Can Hip Hop Save Ballet?

Overview

Why are there so few black dancers in classical ballet?

In the world of classical ballet, black dancers are conspicuous by their absence. Eric Underwood, a former soloist with The Royal Ballet, wants to understand what might be restricting their participation.

In Amsterdam, Eric meets Michaela DePrince, born in Sierra Leone and now performing as a soloist for the Dutch National Ballet.

Misty Copeland, who became the first African American female principal dancer for the prestigious American Ballet Theatre, asks if ballet classes provide a safe space for black children.

In Chicago, Homer Bryant, The Ballet Disruptor, is fusing classical point technique with hip hop, and believes that Hiplet can help a 350-year-old artform find new audiences.

In London, Cassa Pancho and Cira Robinson from Ballet Black share their experiences of providing role models for aspiring black dancers.