Carmen de Lavallade: A Dance of Breaking Barriers

Carmen de Lavallade: A Life Unfolded in Dance

Tonight, as the spotlight shines brightly at the Kennedy Center, we're not just honoring a dancer but a cultural pioneer. Carmen de Lavallade, the graceful 86-year-old being celebrated, has twirled through challenges and shattered barriers that have echoed through the annals of dance history.

“The connection,” de Lavallade shares with a radiant smile when reflecting on what she hopes audiences feel during her performances. “I don't feel that I'm just dancing for myself; I'm dancing for the audience.”

A Path Paved with Resilience

Born as the daughter of a bricklayer in Los Angeles, Carmen's initiation into the world of dance was marked by racial challenges. In her own words, “In those days, there were very few people who would take you if you were colored.” Yet, her immense talent beckoned, culminating in a prestigious placement in a local dance company while still in high school, where she was accompanied by none other than Alvin Ailey himself.

Dance, Love and a Legacy of Storytelling

De Lavallade's journey extended beyond dance—her heart danced into a romantic partnership with Geoffrey Holder, an extraordinary figure in his own right known for his Tony Award-winning work in “The Wiz.” Together, they cultivated a shared lifework filled with creativity and unyielding support.

“He allowed me to be who I am. We didn't get in each other's way,” she fondly reminisces about Holder, illustrating how love empowered her pursuits and passion.

A Reflection on Injustice and Progress

Not all moments have been celebratory. In 1961, as de Lavallade prepared to grace the iconic “The Ed Sullivan Show,” she faced the disheartening barrier of racial segregation and was not permitted to perform alongside her white counterpart. “I wasn't surprised,” she recounts, a calm acceptance underlying her tone, reflective of a time when artistic expression was often stifled by societal constraints.

“It's not like today where you can protest openly. Back then, you just moved on.”

Modern Day Honors and Reflection

Now, as a Kennedy Center Honoree, Carmen has not only witnessed the evolution of her craft but has also played an integral role in shaping it. She remains an influential educator at the Yale School of Drama, where she passes her knowledge to the next generation—teaching actors how to embody their roles physically, much like she has done throughout her life.

Enduring Courage and a Heartful No

In recent years, de Lavallade has made waves in the cultural conversation surrounding social justice. A poignant moment arose when she declared her intention to boycott the White House reception following the Kennedy Center Honors in response to President Trump's remarks regarding racial unrest. “I am 86 now,” she affirmed, “I think at this time, it's my privilege to say no.” Though reflecting on her non-political stance, it is clear that her work extends far beyond the world of dance; it speaks to the very heart of activism and resilience in the arts.

A Celebration of Connection

This evening, amidst applause and cheers, de Lavallade is not just accepting an award. Instead, she is celebrating a lifetime defined by ardor, persistence, and an undeniable passion for connection—with her audience and the world. “I'm glad to think that whatever I did meant something,” she states, her words carrying the weight of history and triumph.

Conclusion

As we shine a spotlight on Carmen de Lavallade's unparalleled journey, we are reminded of the stories we carry—through dance, love—and the ways in which we connect with each other across generations and cultures.

• Trump, first lady pull out of Kennedy Center Honors to avoid political distraction
• 2017 Kennedy Center Honors
• Carmen De Lavallade's Official Site
• "Carmen and Geoffrey" - Documentary Film