The Misty Copeland Foundation Expands Its Signature Program and Adds Two More

The Misty Copeland Foundation (MCF) announced an expansion of its signature program, BE BOLD, and the launch of two new programs, BE BOLDNext Steps and BE BOLDER this September. Read on for more information about MCF’s growth.

MCF was founded by Misty Copeland in 2021 to bring ballet to under-resourced communities and foster supportive, inclusive dance environments. Its signature after-school ballet program, BE BOLD, which operates in the Bronx and Harlem, is expanding from five to 22 sites this fall. Designed for students ages 5 through 12, BE BOLD approaches ballet instruction through a holistic framework and comes at no cost to families. A new music framework will also be added to the program. 

Along with the expansion of BE BOLD, MCF has launched BE BOLDNext Steps. In partnership with The Ailey School, 92NY, and Dance Theatre of Harlem, this bridge program supports 12 BE BOLD graduates ages 8 through 10 in pursuit of more formal dance training.

BE BOLDER, aimed at adults 50 and older, also launched this fall. The ballet-based wellness program uses storytelling and live music to encourage expression and promote well-being. 

“I’m amazed by what we have been able to accomplish during the past three years through BE BOLD, and I’m excited by how BE BOLDNextSteps and BE BOLDER will serve even more new dancers, young and old. I’m so grateful to our talented, dedicated dance and music teaching artists and, of course, all of our partners and supporters,” said Misty Copeland in a recent press release.