Misty Copeland Foundation's Spring Benefit: An Evening of Dance and Legacy in New York City

Celebrating a Legacy of Dance: The Misty Copeland Foundation's Spring Benefit

On April 29, 2026, the Misty Copeland Foundation (MCF) will host its annual Spring Benefit at the elegant The Pool + The Grill venue in New York City. This event promises a night of joy, support, and celebration dedicated to the impact and legacy of Misty Copeland, a pioneering figure in the ballet world. The cornerstone of the event is to raise funds for the $1 million Celebrating Misty Campaign, which aims to expand access to affordable dance programs in under-resourced communities

An Evening to Remember

The Spring Benefit will not only honor Misty's legacy but will also feature an engaging evening filled with live music, dancing, and an exquisite culinary journey showcasing selections from some of New York’s best-loved restaurants. As the Chair of the evening, Misty Copeland will be joined by an illustrious lineup of Honorary Co-Chairs, including esteemed figures such as choreographer Debbie Allen, artistic director Bill T. Jones, Emmy-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, Grammy recipient Nile Rodgers, and actress-producer Tracee Ellis Ross.

The event is set to be a vibrant acknowledgment of the Foundation's hard work and a call to action for the community, highlighting the importance of supporting arts education in areas of need. Co-Chairs Sarah Arison, Justice Faith, Nia Faith, Julie Kim, Nyssa Lee, and Benis Reffkin represent a blend of seasoned philanthropists and young leaders, emphasizing MCF's commitment to fostering intergenerational collaboration.

Supporting the Community

The proceeds from the Spring Benefit directly support three signature programs: BE BOLD, BE BOLDNext Steps, and BE BOLDER.

1. BE BOLD: This pioneering after-school ballet program provides children aged 5 to 12 in the Bronx and Harlem with access to quality dance education. The program is designed with a comprehensive curriculum that includes ballet training, music, health and wellness workshops, mentoring, and tutoring. It aims to break down barriers to participation in dance and promote diversity within the art form.

2. BE BOLDNext Steps: This initiative offers support for graduates of the BE BOLD program. Collaboration with local institutions like 92NY, Dance Theatre of Harlem, and The Ailey School ensures that committed young dancers receive the necessary resources—tuition, transportation, and dance apparel—to continue their growth in more formal dance environments.

3. BE BOLDER: A wellness program intended for adults aged 50 and above, BE BOLDER emphasizes movement and connection while encouraging creative expression. This program advocates the belief that dance is a lifelong journey attainable at any age.

Misty Copeland expressed her passion for this work by stating, "This work is deeply personal to me. Dance changed the course of my life, and through the Misty Copeland Foundation, we are creating opportunities for children and adults to experience that same sense of confidence, discipline, and joy."

Executive Director Caryn Campbell reinforced this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of sustaining opportunities through the benefit, which enables the Foundation to offer high-quality, free programs that foster accessibility to the arts.

Join the Movement

Founded in 2021, the Misty Copeland Foundation is dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the world of dance. The organization strives to empower communities through ballet instruction and holistic support, ensuring that the joy and benefits of dance are available to everyone.

For those interested in supporting the cause, attending the Spring Benefit, or contributing to the Celebrating Misty Campaign, further information is available on the Foundation's website.

Together, let’s keep the spirit of dance alive and accessible for future generations in the Bronx and Harlem.