December 7th, 2024

Houston’s historic ballerina graces stage again, talks ‘black female body’ and dance

By: N. L. Preston

HOUSTON – A fierce photo of a group of sassy little Black ballerinas set the Internet on fire recently, and the photographer, Brandie Perry, told reporters the tiny #BlackGirlMagic troop looked up to the young woman iconic singer Prince said was his muse.

“It started off as photos of friends going to dance together and getting pictures,” said Perry, whose photo of the girls went viral in February. “But they all look up to Misty Copeland, and it’s Black History Month, so it couldn’t have happened at a better time.”

And while the tiny ballerinas from Beaumont, Texas look up to Copeland …. Copeland has praised the legendary Houston ballerina who helped to pave the way for generations to come.

Before Copeland became the first African American principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre, Lauren Anderson burst through a glass ceiling, becoming the first African American principal ballerina at the Houston Ballet in 1990. And before Anderson, when blacks were still considered “colored,” Raven Wilkinson forged the path in the 1950s as a dancer for the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo.

Both Anderson and Wilkinson were at Copeland’s 2015 debut in Swan Lake, which was the first time a Black woman became the Swan Queen with American Ballet Theatre. Anderson presented Copeland with flowers onstage after the historic performance.

A trio of “firsts” celebrating each other’s successes, which sadly, had large gaps in between. But today, because of these pioneers, and a few others, one door after another are beginning to open.

Last year, 11-year-old Charlotte Nebres became the first Black lead in the New York City Ballet’s holiday production of George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker.”

What’s the difference between then and now? Why is #BlackGirlTwirl becoming a movement?

The internet — which Anderson credits as a force in helping to highlight black ballerinas around the world.

“One thing about the diversity of African Americans in these major ballet companies is social media. It has changed the world of dance in so many ways,” Anderson told African-American News&Issues. “We are able to see who’s out there doing what, in what company, in real time. We have always been there, but not necessarily been seen by the rest of the industry. That being said, the ‘trend’ is diversity and inclusion. We have always had the talent, but not been given the chance.”

And with the crack in the door being opened wider for African Americans in dance, an elephant (in a pink tutu) still remains in the room: body image.

When one thinks of the “typical” ballerina, you may think of a “Black Swan” movie storyline: frail, near-starvation dancers suffering from eating disorders. But one look at Anderson’s impressive frame, you see the strength of the Black female body. Anderson says we must release the stereotypes and focus on health and fitness. It starts where we live, and overall, how we perceive ourselves.

“Most people are not the typical frames of ballerinas! However, most Black neighborhoods are food deserts and have mostly fast food establishments. We need to have access to healthy food and good information on what is best to eat to stay in shape and be healthy,” she explained. “We all have to train our bodies ridiculously hard to be in ballerina condition. Unfortunately, one wall of our dancer lives is a mirror. We are our worst critics of what is in that mirror. Especially women!”

Anderson worked hard to transform her body. Early in her career, she became a pescatarian, took Pilates and made fitness her focus, along with hard work and determination. Her breakthrough came when legendary Houston Ballet artistic director Ben Stevenson promoted her to the principal.

After that, she went on to dance leading roles in all of the classical ballets. Anderson remained at the helm of the Houston Ballet for 16 years, before retiring in 2006.

In January 2007, she joined the Houston Ballet’s education department where she teaches ballet classes, conducts master classes at area schools, with heavy focus on underserved communities.

Anderson has accepted the responsibility of her role as a “first,” and continues to give back, helping to mold the next generation. But like any great artist, when the stage calls, you must answer.

Anderson is gracing the stage again at the Wortham Theatre, starring as Queen Mother in “The Sleeping Beauty,” Stevenson’s interpretation of the classic French fairytale by Charles Perrault.

“I am loving getting back on stage with the Houston Ballet. The Sleeping Beauty is a stunning production, from the dancing to the sets and costumes. You don’t want to miss it,” she said.

A pair of Anderson’s pointe shoes are on display at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History.

When asked what’s the best advice she can give to a woman trying to chase her dreams, she said, “Nobody can do you better than you. You don’t need to be anyone else.”

And what’s the best advice a woman ever gave her? “Trust your gut, trust the process!”

And by the way, who is one of Anderson’s inspirations? None other than legendary dancer, choreographer, producer and director — Ms. Debbie Allen — who’s also a Houston native.

“Woman Crush Wednesday!! I use to run to the television to see this woman on Fame back in the 80s. “Dance for real, honey!” I love you @therealdebbieallen,” @laurenandersonofficial posted on Instagram.

#BlackGirlMagic at its finest. Keep dancing Queens!

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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

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