Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Sarah L. Kaufman described Misty Copeland’s onstage presence as “magnetic,” noting her remarkable combination of physical grace and emotional energy.

Copeland possessed the quintessential ballerina physique — long legs, arched feet, and an elegant neck — attributes that made her movements appear effortlessly refined.

Beyond her technical ability, Copeland’s expressiveness and warmth set her apart, allowing audiences to feel her passion and humanity through every performance.

Kaufman observed that while ballet has grown increasingly focused on technical precision, Copeland’s natural emotionality revived a sense of personal artistry that many dancers now lack.

Despite being petite in stature, Copeland commanded the stage with extraordinary power and expansiveness, transforming her physical presence into something monumental.

Kaufman emphasized that even before Copeland’s promotion to principal dancer, she already had a rare ability to captivate audiences — “the kind of dancer you could not take your eyes off.”