Made a resolution to read more books this year? Or maybe just looking for a new source of fuel for your artistry? We asked eight dancers about their favorite books in our Spotlight series, and their answers ranged from cheeky novels to biographies to cookbooks.
So whip out your library card (or your Kindle) and dive into the books that inspire these artists:
DePrince in David Dawson's A Million Kisses to my Skin. Photo by Angela Sterling via dnb.org
You know Michaela DePrince's story by now. The Dutch National Ballet soloist was orphaned in war-torn Sierra Leone, adopted by an American family and subsequently became a near-household name in the ballet world, eventually joining Dance Theatre of Harlem and then DNB. Since then, she's written a memoir, acted as an ambassador for War Child Holland, appeared in a Beyoncé music video, become the face of a Jockey campaign and will be the subject of a upcoming biopic directed by none other than Madonna. But all her high-profile achievements haven't changed her exacting work ethic or unwavering commitment to her craft.
Ever since we heard that Michaela DePrince's memoir, Taking Flight, was going to be a movie, we've been on the edge of our seats waiting for more info. Almost three years later, it's been worth the wait—we just learned that the Queen of Pop herself will be directing DePrince's biopic.
"Michaela's journey resonated with me deeply as both an artist and an activist who understands adversity," Madonna said in a statement. "We have a unique opportunity to shed light on Sierra Leone and let Michaela be the voice for all the orphaned children she grew up beside."
We know Michaela DePrince's inspiring story of going from war-torn Sierra Leone to international ballet star. But now she's giving us even more insight into her life as a dancer with Dutch National Ballet with a new vlog series that covers everything from her recent injury to her globetrotting lifestyle. Here's why we're loving it:
1. She's #goals for any dancer dealing with an injury.
This summer, DePrince ruptured her achilles tendon. But instead of letting the injury get her down, DePrince has used the opportunity to take on new projects (like starting this vlog!) and has devoted herself to her rehab.
