The tragic news of the loss of beloved ballerina Michaela DePrince, at the tender age of 29, was compounded by an unspeakable sorrow mere 24 hours later—the passing of her adoptive mother, Elaine DePrince. Elaine, a resident of Cherry Hill, New Jersey, succumbed to fate on September 11, just a day after Michaela's sudden departure on September 10, as confirmed by a heartfelt Facebook post from family spokesperson Jessica Volinski.
"These past days have been a harrowing odyssey, far more arduous than anyone could fathom, as the family grappled with not just one, but two devastating losses," penned Volinski. Elaine's "untimely demise, occurring during a routine medical procedure preparatory to a surgery, stands as a cruel irony, for she was unaware of her daughter's passing at that very moment."
Volinski went on to clarify, "As astounding as it may seem, these two tragic events were utterly unrelated. Perhaps, in a twisted sense of mercy, Elaine, who had already endured the loss of three children years ago, was spared the agony of mourning a fourth. Yet, the family's current ordeal is beyond comprehension—to mourn two beloved members within the span of a day is a tragedy unparalleled, leaving a wake of unimaginable pain."
Michaela, a former principal soloist of the esteemed Boston Ballet and the radiant star of the 2011 documentary 'First Position,' had a life that transcended the ballet stage. Born an orphan in Sierra Leone, she was adopted by Elaine and her family, embarking on a journey that took her to the shores of America. Her passion for dance ignited from childhood, leading her to the hallowed halls of the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Ballet at the American Ballet Theatre before gracing the stages of the Dance Theatre of Harlem in 2012 and later, the Dutch National Ballet. In 2021, she joined the Boston Ballet, where her artistic prowess shone brightly.
The official announcement of Michaela's passing, shared on her Instagram account on September 13, resonated with a profound sense of loss. "With hearts heavy with sorrow, we mourn the loss of the celestial ballerina, Michaela Mabinty DePrince, whose artistry captivated countless hearts and whose indomitable spirit ignited a flame of inspiration, etching an indelible mark across the ballet world and beyond," read the statement, signed by 'Team MDP.'
DePrince's life was a testament to grace, purpose, and unyielding strength. "Her unwavering dedication to her craft, her humanitarian endeavors, and her courage in triumphing over unimaginable hurdles serve as an eternal beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the darkest corners, beauty and greatness can flourish," continued the tribute. "Though her time among us was fleeting, her brilliance and legacy will forever illuminate the hearts of all who were touched by her story, spanning generations to come. Our love and prayers extend to her cherished family, friends, and all who held her dear."
At present, the cause of Michaela's passing remains undisclosed, shrouded in the mystery of fate's cruel hand.
