“There’s a reason that the opera and ballet have been around over 400 years,” stated Misty Copeland during her performance at the 2026 Academy Awards. This poignant remark came as she took the stage at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, on March 15, 2026, to perform a piece from the film Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler.
Copeland, a principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, wore a costume created by Geoffrey Holder for the 1982 production of Firebird. Her performance included contributions from other artists such as Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq, and featured the song “I Lied to You” from the film.
The context of her performance was heightened by recent comments from actor Timothée Chalamet, who expressed a lack of interest in ballet and opera, stating, “I don’t want to be working in ballet or opera. Things where it’s like, ‘Hey, keep this thing alive, even though no one cares about this anymore.'” Copeland’s response underscored the enduring significance of these art forms.
At 43 years old, Copeland’s journey has been remarkable, especially following her hip replacement surgery late last year. Her dedication to ballet and the arts has been a central theme in her career, particularly through her work with the Misty Copeland Foundation, which aims to provide opportunities for aspiring dancers.
Ryan Coogler’s film Sinners made waves at the Oscars, receiving a record-breaking 16 nominations, further emphasizing the intersection of contemporary cinema and traditional art forms like ballet. Copeland’s performance served as a bridge between these worlds, showcasing the relevance of ballet in modern culture.
As the ceremony unfolded, the audience was reminded of the rich history and cultural significance of ballet and opera, despite their perceived distance from popular culture. Copeland’s artistry and commitment to her craft highlighted the importance of keeping these traditions alive.
In her own words, Copeland remarked, “But I think that it’s important that we acknowledge that, yes, this is an art form that is not ‘popular’ and a part of pop culture as movies are. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have enduring relevance in culture.” This sentiment resonated throughout the evening.
As the night concluded, the impact of Copeland’s performance lingered, leaving audiences to reflect on the importance of supporting and celebrating the arts in all their forms. The 2026 Oscars not only honored cinematic achievements but also provided a platform for a powerful statement about the relevance of ballet.
