Michaela DePrince, the principal soloist at Boston Ballet, has passed away at the young age of 29.

The dancer was born in Sierra Leone in 1995 and her parents tragically died in the country’s civil war. She was adopted by an American family at the age of four. Michaela credited her years in an orphanage, where she found a magazine featuring the photo of a ballerina, as what led her on the path to becoming a professional dancer.

Michaela‘s family released a statement on Friday (September 13) to confirm the devastating loss.

Keep reading to find out more…

A cause of death has not been revealed as of this time.

Michaela‘s team said, “With pain in our hearts, we share the loss of star ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, whose artistry touched countless hearts and whose spirit inspired many, leaving an indelible mark on the world of ballet, and beyond. Her life was one defined by grace, purpose, and strength. Her unwavering commitment to her art, her humanitarian efforts, and her courage in overcoming unimaginable challenges will forever inspire us. She stood as a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from the darkest of places. Though her time with us was far too brief, her brilliance and legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of all who were touched by her story, for generations to come. Love and prayers go to her chosen family, friends, and those who loved her.”

The below statement is from Michaela‘s family.

It is with profound sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beautiful sister, Michaela Mabinty DePrince. Michaela touched so many lives across the world, including ours. She was an unforgettable inspiration to everyone who knew her or heard her story. From her early life in war-torn Africa, to stages and screens across the world, she achieved her dreams and so much more. Her passion and impact on the dance world, especially in inspiring young Black dancers to pursue their dreams, has been tremendous. We will miss her and her gorgeous smile forever and we know you will, too.

Michaela is survived by her sisters Mia, Beelee, Jaye, Mariel, Amie, and her brothers Adam and Erik.

Mia would like to share the following statement:

I am truly in a state of shock and deep sadness. My beautiful sister is no longer here. From the very beginning of our story back in Africa, sleeping on a shared mat in the orphanage, Michaela (Mabinty) and I used to make up our own musical theater plays and act them out. We created our own ballets. She would choreograph, and I was the composer and conductor. When we got adopted, our parents quickly poured into our dreams and arose the beautiful, gracefully strong ballerina that so many of you knew her as today. She was an inspiration. Whether she was leaping across the stage or getting on a plane and flying to third-world countries to provide orphans and children with dance classes, she was determined to conquer all her dreams in the arts and dance. Michaela (Mabinty) has left her footprints in the sand and on so many stages across the world. She will be truly missed.

I love you, my beautiful Butterfly,
Mia Mabinty DePrince

The family thanks you for their privacy as they navigate this very difficult time. Services will be private.

In lieu of sending flowers, please donate to War Child, an organization Michaela was closely involved with for many years as a War Child Ambassador. This work meant the world to her, and your donations will directly help other children who grew up in an environment of armed conflict. Thank you.

www.warchild.net

We’re sending our thoughts and condolences to Michaela‘s loved ones during this difficult time. RIP.