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Lori Pitts
Founding Director of Voices Unbarred, Actor, Applied Theatre Facilitator
Professional Background
Lori Pitts is a passionate advocate for using theatre as a transformative medium that empowers individuals and communities alike. With a rich and diverse career in the performing arts and education, Lori has dedicated her life to ensuring that theatre is not merely a form of entertainment but a powerful catalyst for social change. As the Founding Director of Voices Unbarred, Lori channels her expertise to create a welcoming environment for voices that often go unheard, fostering inclusive and engaging dialogues through the art of performance.
In addition to her role with Voices Unbarred, Lori has an extensive background as an actor and teaching artist. She has served as an Actor/Teaching Artist at Young Playwrights' Theater, where she inspired young minds to embrace their creativity. Lori's freelance work as an actor further complements her artistic portfolio, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the craft.
Throughout her career, Lori has honed her skills and expanded her impact by collaborating with various esteemed organizations. Positions such as Teaching Artist at the Ford's Theatre Society and Curriculum & Creativity Coordinator at Reach Incorporated highlight her commitment to education and community service. By integrating her theatrical expertise with educational methodologies, Lori has demonstrated her belief in the power of theatre to ignite change and promote inclusivity.
Having worked as a Program Instructor at Reach Incorporated and a Teaching Artist at Imagination Stage, Inc., Lori has played an integral role in developing curriculums that empower youth through the performing arts. Moreover, her experience as a Fellow at Will Power to Youth and as an Education Intern/Teaching Artist at Actors Theatre of Louisville has further solidified her dedication to nurturing young talent and fostering an appreciation for theatre among diverse audiences.
Education and Achievements
Lori Pitts earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Theatre/Theater at Davidson College, where she laid the foundation for her artistic journey. Her formal education equipped her with the critical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to understand the complexities of storytelling and performance, as well as the socio-political dimensions of theatre.
Lori's commitment to theatre is firmly rooted in her belief that everyone has the potential to be both a spectator and an actor in their own lives. This principle drives her work with communities where she employs Boal's Theatre of the Oppressed techniques to ensure that everyone can express themselves, challenge injustices, and effect change in their environments. By providing a platform for dialogue, Lori fosters an inclusive atmosphere where each individual's voice is valued and respected.
Notable Contributions and Impact
Throughout her distinguished career, Lori Pitts has made significant contributions to the world of theatre and education. Her founding of Voices Unbarred stands out as a remarkable achievement, as it exemplifies her vision for an inclusive theatrical community. Through this organization, Lori works tirelessly to dismantle barriers and promote accessibility in the arts, thus ensuring that a diverse array of voices can be heard.
Furthermore, Lori's extensive experience teaching and guiding young artists through creative processes has been invaluable. By serving as a Teaching Artist across various institutions, she has not only shared her talent but has also empowered countless individuals to find their own voices and express themselves through theatre. Her work has undoubtedly enriched the lives of those she encounters, leaving a lasting legacy in the fields of arts education and community engagement.
In addition to her direct contributions to the theatre, Lori’s emphasis on education enhances her impact on future generations. By developing curricula that foster creativity and critical thinking, she has equipped young people with the tools they need to navigate both the artistic world and their everyday lives. Lori's innovative approaches to teaching and her unwavering commitment to her students have made her a respected figure within the theatrical community
Conclusion
Lori Pitts stands as a true champion of theatre and education. With her extensive experience, innovative methodologies, and heartfelt commitment to community engagement, she continues to break down barriers and uplift the voices of individuals from all walks of life. Her work not only transforms lives but also enriches our collective understanding of the world through the lens of performance. As a leader and advocate for change, Lori's contributions to the arts and her dedication to inclusivity will likely resonate for years to come.
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