ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS

 

Trained primarily in the classical Russian Vaganova technique, Lori Barrett, owner and director of Ballet Rabun, has over 48 years of experience in the dance industry. Although she has taught jazz, tap, hip-hop/street fusion, praise and worship  and contemporary all over the country for many years, her primary emphasis has always been on ballet because it is the cornerstone for all other forms of dance and physical endeavors such as gymnastics, ice skating, cheer, sports and even skateboarding! 

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Lori's reputation is built on being able to rapidly progress students which is illustrated by a long history of very young pre-professional to professional dancers. 

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Lori trained at Joffrey in NYC,  Atlanta Ballet, and NC School of the Arts among many others. She has owned 3 studios and was the artistic director for several ballet programs at fine arts schools and rec centers around the country. She has also choreographed, directed and produced over 29 stage productions

 

Retired from studio and theater, she now enjoys supplementing aspiring ballerinas and athletes with ballet technique, as well as bringing the joy of artistic expression to adults and teens, beginner to advanced age 12-100!

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In 2001, Leslie Bleckley started her dance training at the age of 10 under the direction of Lori (Gamble) Barrett. At 15 she auditioned and was accepted to The Rock School, American Ballet Theatre, NC School of the Arts, and Metropolitan Ballet Theater. She then danced and trained professionally in NYC and L.A. at the Am. Musical and Dramatic Academy. In Hollywood, CA she performed in Musical Theatre productions such as The Rocky Horror Picture Show and many more. Marriage took her to Dallas TX where she danced with Dallas Contemporary Ballet Company while teaching at multiple studios around Dallas. With a solid background in classical ballet, Leslie's passion shines through as a contemporary dancer and choreographer. Leslie is now back in her home town of Rabun County, raising her son, and teaching part time at Ballet Rabun!