In classical ballet, few names have resonated as powerfully with the notion of breaking barriers as Anne Raven Wilkinson. Her life story is one of courage, grace, and an unwavering commitment to art in the face of systemic racism. Born on February 2, 1935, in Harlem, New York, Wilkinson was the first African-American woman to dance full-time with a major classical ballet company—an achievement that forever altered the landscape of ballet. More than her trailblazing achievements, her legacy lives on through the generations of dancers she inspired, including Misty Copeland, who became the first African-American principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre.

Defying the Odds: Wilkinson’s Rise in Ballet

Raven Wilkinson fell in love with ballet at an early age. She was captivated after watching a performance of Coppélia by the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. Despite the odds stacked against her as a Black woman in a predominantly white and exclusive art form, her love for ballet never wavered. Wilkinson trained diligently, with teachers from Russia’s Bolshoi Theatre guiding her early development. Yet, even with her immense talent and dedication, the journey to becoming a professional ballerina was far from easy.

In 1955, after two rejections, Wilkinson auditioned for the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo for a third time. This time, she was accepted, marking the beginning of her historic career. During her second season, she was promoted to the role of soloist, a rare and remarkable achievement for any dancer, let alone an African-American woman during an era of deep racial segregation in America.

Confronting Racism on the Stage and Beyond

Wilkinson’s journey wasn’t just one of personal triumph but one steeped in the constant battle against racism. Touring with Ballet Russe meant performing across the United States, including the segregated South. Wilkinson often had to conceal her race to stay in “whites-only” hotels, but her dedication to her truth never faltered. When confronted about her race during a tour stop in Atlanta, Wilkinson refused to lie. As a result, she was forced to leave the hotel, and discrimination became a recurring challenge throughout her career.

Her unwavering grace and dignity in the face of such adversities elevated her status not just as a dancer but as a symbol of resilience. Wilkinson’s ability to hold her ground despite being told to quit and start a school of African dance demonstrates her remarkable tenacity and vision. Despite eventually leaving Ballet Russe due to the mounting pressures of racism, she had already left an indelible mark on the ballet world.

A Global Stage, a Global Impact

After leaving the Ballet Russe, Wilkinson found a new artistic home abroad with the Dutch National Ballet, where she danced as a second soloist for seven years. This move expanded her influence internationally, allowing her to perform iconic ballets like Les Sylphides, Swan Lake, and Giselle. The Dutch National Ballet provided Wilkinson the artistic respect and recognition she deserved, but homesickness brought her back to the U.S., where she continued her career with the New York City Opera, dancing well into her later years.

A Mentor and Muse for Future Generations

Wilkinson’s impact on the ballet world extends far beyond her performances. In her later years, she became a mentor to Misty Copeland, who credited Wilkinson with inspiring her journey to become American Ballet Theatre’s first Black principal dancer. Wilkinson’s mentorship to Copeland is a testament to the legacy she sought to leave behind—one not merely focused on her own achievements but on the possibility of opening doors for the generations to come.

In her own words, Wilkinson explained, “You have to know that there is more to this world than the limitations placed upon you by others.” This philosophy not only guided her career but has inspired countless dancers of color to pursue their dreams despite societal constraints.

A Lasting Legacy: Ballet, Advocacy, and Beyond

Raven Wilkinson’s contributions to the ballet world go far beyond her performances. Her life story speaks to the ongoing struggle for representation in the arts and the importance of perseverance in the face of systemic inequality. In addition to Misty Copeland’s continued homage to her mentor, Wilkinson’s life was documented in the film Black Ballerina, which highlights her journey alongside other trailblazing Black ballerinas. Her courage to stand firm in her identity as a dancer and a Black woman laid the groundwork for future generations to walk, dance, and leap toward their dreams.

Wilkinson passed away in 2018 at 83, but her influence continues to ripple through the dance world. Every time a Black ballerina takes the stage, whether in a local studio or a grand international company, they stand on the shoulders of Wilkinson. As the ballet world becomes more inclusive, Wilkinson’s legacy remains as relevant and necessary as ever.

Continuing Raven Wilkinson’s Fight for Equity in Ballet

In 2024, as we continue to push for inclusivity in ballet, Raven Wilkinson’s story remains a vital beacon of hope and perseverance. The fight for equity in the arts still has a long way to go, but Raven’s contributions remind of what is possible when one person dares to dream despite the odds. Her legacy isn’t just one of personal achievement but a broader commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable space for future generations.

Raven Wilkinson’s journey was not just about dancing on stage—it was about changing the stage itself, making it a platform for all who dare to dream big and wild. Through her courage, she showed us that the pursuit of artistry and justice can go hand in hand, leaving a timeless impact on ballet and beyond.