Podcast Title: The Turning - Seasons 1, 2 & 3
Episode: The Swans of Harlem | Part One
Release Date: April 30, 2024
Hosts: iHeartPodcasts and Rococo Punch
Description: This episode delves into the untold stories of pioneering Black ballerinas through an insightful interview with Lydia Abarca, a former prima ballerina of the Dance Theater of Harlem. Co-authored by Karen Valby, The Swans of Harlem uncovers the resilience and artistry of five Black ballerinas who reshaped the landscape of ballet.

Introduction

The episode begins with Erica introducing the upcoming Season Three of The Turning and highlighting the special feature on Karen Valby’s new book, The Swans of Harlem. Erica sets the stage for a mini-series of interviews focused on two dancers central to Valby’s work, commencing with Lydia Abarca.

Erica:
“I want to tell you about a new book. It's called The Swans of Harlem... their stories are surprising and vivid and poignant and totally worth your time if you enjoyed our most recent season of The Turning.”
[00:06]

Early Life and Introduction to Dance

Karen Valby initiates the conversation by tracing Lydia’s roots, revealing her upbringing in Harlem and her early exposure to dance.

Lydia Abarca:
“I grew up in Harlem on 125th Street, right off Broadway in the Grant Housing Projects with my six siblings... We had our parents, loving parents.”
[01:49]

Lydia describes a childhood filled with love and limited resources, emphasizing her mother's dedication to finding programs and opportunities for her children. Despite her father's hardworking nature, Lydia expresses regret over the lack of Spanish spoken at home, which could have enriched their cultural experience.

Discovering Ballet

Lydia’s first encounter with structured dance occurred in fourth grade during a performance of Waltz of the Flowers choreographed by a nun at her Catholic school. This pivotal moment ignited her passion for ballet, leading to an unexpected scholarship at a young age.

Lydia Abarca:
“I was in heaven... and I did my big finale, which was a split. Nobody in my family could do a split. And the next thing I know, I got a full scholarship.”
[03:48]

Despite initial enthusiasm, Lydia found the early ballet training monotonous, focusing heavily on technique rather than the expressive art form she admired.

Lydia Abarca:
“After six years, you just kind of get like, well, I'm not having fun with ballet. I don't get it.”
[05:38]

Joining the Dance Theater of Harlem

Lydia recounts her decision to join the Dance Theater of Harlem, inspired by her sister and the allure of a more inclusive ballet environment.

Lydia Abarca:
“Arthur Mitchell had Clay with me, and he was molding me, and I had to learn how to be a principal dancer. It was exciting.”
[10:31]

Arthur Mitchell’s dynamic leadership provided Lydia with a sense of camaraderie and a fresh perspective on ballet, contrasting sharply with her previous experiences.

Rise to Prima Ballerina

Under Mitchell’s mentorship, Lydia flourished, securing leading roles and becoming a symbol of Black excellence in ballet. However, the demands of the company and financial constraints overshadowed personal achievements.

Lydia Abarca:
“I have five sisters, and being around women, you're very conscious of the possibility of jealousy. So whatever I was doing, it was obviously because Arthur had me doing it.”
[12:00]

Despite her rising fame, Lydia grappled with the limited financial rewards, as most earnings were funneled back into sustaining the company.

Challenges and Transition

Lydia describes the strain of constant touring and fundraising, highlighting the emotional and financial toll it took on her and her family.

Lydia Abarca:
“It wasn't happening. And I know that any money that we got any extra money, went to the company.”
[21:27]

A turning point came when Lydia suffered a knee injury during a rigorous ballet performance, leading her to explore opportunities outside traditional ballet, including Broadway productions like The Wiz and Dancin'.

Lydia Abarca:
“I have no regrets that that's how I went out. I loved doing it.”
[35:46]

Reclaiming Her Legacy

Post-injury, Lydia transitioned to teaching, finding fulfillment in nurturing the next generation of dancers. Reflecting on her career, she expresses a desire for her contributions to be recognized and remembered.

Lydia Abarca:
“I just want history to remember that. But I do want people to remember.”
[45:32]

In interviews for Karen Valby’s book, Lydia reclaims her status as the first Black prima ballerina of the Dance Theater of Harlem, challenging narratives that overlooked her pivotal role.

Final Reflections

Lydia concludes with a sense of pride and accomplishment, acknowledging the challenges she faced while celebrating her artistic legacy.

Lydia Abarca:
“I'm humble, but I know what I did and I know how hard it was to do it.”
[45:54]

Karen Valby praises Lydia’s journey, highlighting the transformation from a celebrated ballerina to a mentor and teacher, ensuring her story resonates with future generations.

Karen Valby:
“You had an extraordinary first act in your life, Lydia, and your second act was so meaningful in your struggle to find peace and stability. But it's such a joy to witness you in your third act now and to see you in the spotlight, which is really where you've always belonged.”
[46:30]

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Erica hinting at upcoming interviews with other ballerinas, promising continued exploration of the rich history and contributions of Black dancers in ballet.

Erica:
“If you liked this interview, you're in luck. There's another one coming up with former ballerina Sheila Rohan. Keep an eye out for that, and thanks for listening.”
[47:00]

Notable Quotes:

• Lydia Abarca on Early Passion:
  “If I wasn't in a book, if music came on, I was just twirling around the house.”
  [03:11]

• On Financial Struggles:
  “The money never changed. I mean, the money, 150 went up to 250, you know, but I don't even know how I was able to buy nice clothes...”
  [22:51]

• Reclaiming Her Story:
  “I just want history to remember that. But I do want people to remember.”
  [45:32]

This episode provides a profound insight into Lydia Abarca’s life, illuminating the complexities of being a Black ballerina in a predominantly white art form. It underscores the importance of representation, resilience, and the enduring legacy of artists who pave the way for future generations.