Photo credits: Dan Lao Photography

I would like to introduce you all to Destiny Wimpye! She is a super talented dancer, actress, and model. She trained at the Debbie Allen Dance Academy. Destiny has performed with some of our favorite artists like Mariah Carey, Jill Scott, Debbie Allen, and more! Recently, I received the opportunity to interview her! Check it out below!

Where are you from?

I am from Atlanta, Georgia!

What inspired you to enter the world of ballet, and how long have you been dancing?

I have been dancing since I was three years old. I was originally going to go into more modern concert dance, not ballet. But one summer, I attended a Balanchine summer course that really made me fall in love with ballet even more. From then on, I knew ballet was what I wanted to do.

When people watch you dance, what message do you hope to convey to them?

The message I hope to convey to people who watch me dance is joy, excitement, and just pure love for what I do. I think as dancers, the best thing we can do to get our message across is to show the audience how much we love what we are doing.

Ballet is so grand, classy, powerful, and graceful! I love to watch ballet! When you are dancing, how does it make you feel?

When I am dancing, I feel like I’m in a whole other world. I just try to focus on the music and have fun. I feel so blessed and lucky to get to do what I love every day.

What fellow ballet dancers have influenced you on your journey?

Some ballet dancers that have helped me along the way are dancers like Ingrid Silva, Alison Stroming, Daphne Lee, and so many others. I also have a mentor who has helped me immensely, and his name is Anthony Burrell.

What has been your most memorable performance, and why?

I think my most memorable performance so far has been performing the role of “Demi Flower” in George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. It’s a very physically demanding role, and I was put on stage at the last minute with only one rehearsal. So I was really proud of myself that day.

What has your experience been like thus far being a black woman in ballet?

My experience as a black woman in ballet has definitely been different everywhere I have studied. Some people are more inclusive, and others are not. I’ve learned how to bring my authentic self to this art form, and I’ve found a company that appreciates me for who I am.

In those challenging moments where things may get hard, how do you keep yourself going?

When I am having hard days, I really take my time to assess what is going on with me that day. I try to push through tough moments, but I can also recognize when I need to take a moment to myself.

When you’re not busy, how are you practicing self-care and pouring into yourself?

I’ve been trying to find different avenues of art to explore. Whether that’s going to museums, reading a book, or cooking. I also try to spend time with my loved ones and people who bring joy into my life.

When it comes to women and our women’s community, what would you like to see more of?

I would love to continue to see more and more women supporting each other. To speak for myself, ballet is a very competitive sport, especially between women. I feel like we could all support each other more because we are stronger together than apart.

What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a professional career in ballet or dance in general? 

 My advice would be to never forget why you started this journey. Don’t take anything for granted in this career, because time flies when you’re having fun. And always follow your Destiny!! 

Share any websites, social media handles, and how we can connect with you and your work!

My Instagram is @destinywimpye.

My website is destinywimpye.com

Thank you so much Destiny!