Taylor Stanley Makes History as First Male Carabosse in NYC Ballet's 'Sleeping Beauty'

The dancer takes on the glamorous, evil fairy role, pushing boundaries in the ballet world.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Taylor Stanley, a dancer at New York City Ballet, has made history by becoming the first male-identifying person to perform the role of Carabosse, the wicked fairy, in the company's production of 'The Sleeping Beauty.' Stanley, who uses he/they pronouns, had to persistently advocate for the opportunity to take on the traditionally female role, which he felt a strong connection to. Carabosse is a complex character who is both glamorous and evil, and Stanley sees the role as a way to explore themes of otherness, marginalization, and the power of self-acceptance.

Why it matters

Stanley's casting as Carabosse represents a significant step forward for gender representation and inclusivity in the traditionally rigid and conservative world of classical ballet. As a mixed-race, queer, and nonbinary dancer, Stanley's performance challenges traditional notions of gender and opens the door for other dancers who may have felt excluded from certain roles in the past.

The details

After being denied the opportunity to play Carabosse in 2023, Stanley approached the company's former director, Peter Martins, and convinced him to allow the dancer to take on the role. Martins, who choreographed the production, was initially surprised by the request but ultimately agreed, telling Stanley he would have to wear heels. Stanley has previously taken on other character roles at City Ballet, such as Drosselmeier in 'The Nutcracker' and Dr. Coppélius in 'Coppélia,' which have allowed him to explore themes of queerness and marginalization. As Carabosse, Stanley aims to channel the character's fierce energy and beauty, while also drawing on his own experiences of otherness.

  • In 2023, Stanley first requested to play the role of Carabosse, but was denied.
  • In 2026, with 'The Sleeping Beauty' scheduled for the winter season, Stanley asked again and was granted the opportunity.
  • Stanley is scheduled to perform the role of Carabosse on February 14, 18, and 21, 2026.

The players

Taylor Stanley

A dancer at New York City Ballet who uses he/they pronouns and is the first male-identifying person to perform the role of Carabosse in the company's production of 'The Sleeping Beauty.'

Peter Martins

The former director of New York City Ballet, who choreographed the company's production of 'The Sleeping Beauty' and granted Stanley's request to play the role of Carabosse.

Kathleen Tracey

A New York City Ballet repertory director who has worked closely with Stanley and has observed the range of interpretations he brings to character roles.

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What they’re saying

“In very Carabosse fashion, it stirred up a fire in me. So I went straight to the source. I went to Peter.”

— Taylor Stanley, Dancer (New York Times)

“He said, 'Well, you're going to have to wear heels.'”

— Taylor Stanley, Dancer (New York Times)

“You see such thought and creativity, and you see this character harmonizing spontaneity as well as calculation.”

— Kathleen Tracey, New York City Ballet Repertory Director (New York Times)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Taylor Stanley's groundbreaking performance as Carabosse in New York City Ballet's 'The Sleeping Beauty' represents a significant step forward for gender representation and inclusivity in the ballet world. As a mixed-race, queer, and nonbinary dancer, Stanley's portrayal of the traditionally female role challenges traditional notions of gender and opens the door for other dancers who may have felt excluded from certain roles in the past.