What happens when the stories of trailblazing Black ballerinas are left out of history books, dance studios, and our cultural memory? In this episode of Rooted in Story, Dr. Denise LaRosa—a former professional dancer with a deep love for ballet—dives into The Swans of Harlem by Karen Valby, a powerful reclamation of five extraordinary women who defied the odds and danced their way into history under the banner of Arthur Mitchell’s Dance Theatre of Harlem.

With heartfelt reflection and informed insight, Dr. LaRosa explores the beauty, brilliance, and heartbreak woven into the lives of these unsung artists—and how their legacy reshapes the story of ballet in America. She also reckons with the complexities of Arthur Mitchell’s leadership and the ways we can hold space for imperfect visionaries while demanding more for future generations of dancers.

Whether you’re a dancer, a reader, or someone passionate about unearthing the stories that shape us, this episode invites you to reflect, learn, and spread the word.

📚 Want to read The Swans of Harlem and support local bookstores at the same time? Purchase your copy through my Bookshop store: bookshop.org/shop/larosareads

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