About The Georgia Ballet
Founded in 1960 by Marietta native Iris Hensley, The Georgia Ballet is a non-profit organization committed to inspiring the public through professional ballet performance, unparalleled dance training and meaningful community outreach. We are continuously growing to meet the needs of the community while fulfilling our reputation as an outstanding arts organization.
MEET OUR FOUNDING DIRECTOR
IRIS HENSLEY
Founding Director
Mrs. Iris Hensley founded The Georgia Ballet in 1960 and served as its Artistic Director until August 2003. She had a noted and varied background as a dancer, teacher, and choreographer. Mrs. Hensley received her dance training in Atlanta, New York, Washington D.C., and with National Ballet of Canada. She made numerous stage and television appearances and choreographed numerous works for regional ballet companies throughout the southeast. In 1960 she founded the Cobb/Marietta Ballet, which later became The Georgia Ballet. Mrs. Hensley received the first Lillian Bennet Sullivan Award, Cobb’s highest recognition in the arts, for her work in inaugurating the Performing Arts package for thousands of Cobb County School children. She was additionally the former director and tri-chairman of the Board for the Southeastern Regional Ballet Association. Mrs. Hensley served on the dance panel for the Georgia Council for the Arts and was a guest instructor for the Governor’s Honor Program.