Lori Simmons
Lori’s early training in ballet began at age 3 under the direction of Betty Balfour Marks of the Ballet Arts Centre. By the age of 14, she was the youngest senior member of the Florida Dance Theater and performed simultaneously with the Ballet Guild of Jacksonville. Although unable to attend studies abroad in Paris, her experience with guest choreographers and artists such as Alvin Ailey, Peter Martins and Art Hutchinson influenced Lori tremendously. After starting a family and establishing her corporate career, she returned to the Ballet Arts Centre during the re-opening in the 80’s under the direction of Beth Marks.
Lori has a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of North Florida with specialty studies in dance. Her specialty training in ballet, modern & jazz choreography techniques, back-stage theater and kinesiology lead to her Florida Department of education teaching certification in dance grades k-12 in 2009. Lori believes that the discipline required to learn the proper technique will help students develop the self-confidence and grace that will lead to a success regardless of a student’s career path.
Certifications
Florida Department of Education
DOE – #1076363 (Dance K-12)
Eligibility Certification