‘Coppelia’ ballerina Michaela DePrince, who performed with Beyoncé and on ‘DWTS,’ dead at 29

nypost.com:

AT&T’s 2012 spotlight performance and in Beyoncé’s Emmy-nominated 2016 “Lemonade” musical film, according to NBC10 Philadelphia.

But her legacy goes beyond dance. DePrince was an orphan who escaped violence during her traumatic childhood. She become a public figure in the ballet world and served as a humanitarian, advocating for children affected by conflict and violence.Her shocking passing was announced via her Instagram account on Friday, Sept.

13; however, her cause of death was not disclosed.“Rest in Power: Ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince,” the caption shared by her team began.“With pain in our hearts, we share the loss of star ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, whose artistry touched countless hearts and whose spirit inspired many, leaving an indelible mark on the world of ballet, and beyond,” the announcement read. “Her life was one defined by grace, purpose, and strength.

Her unwavering commitment to her art, her humanitarian efforts, and her courage in overcoming unimaginable challenges will forever inspire us.”They wrote that DePrince “stood as a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from the darkest of places.”“Though her time with us was far too brief, her brilliance and legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of all who were touched by her story, for generations to come,” the statement continued. “Love and prayers go to her chosen family, friends, and those who loved her.”The Post has reached out to DePrince’s rep, Beyoncé and “DWTS” for comment.DePrince grew up in Sierra Leone, Africa, and saw her first image of an American ballerina while in an orphanage.In 2012, she told the Associated Press she wished “to become this exact person.”“I lost.