Jorden Morris was named Artistic Director of The Orlando Ballet Company at the end of 2021
ORLANDO, Fla. —
The Orlando Ballet Company is preparing for a major leadership change, with Artistic Director Jorden Morris and Associate Artistic Director Lisa Thorn Morris announcing plans to retire at the end of the 2026/2027 season.
The company announced the planned transition on October 28, saying Jorden Morris will remain Artistic Director through June 30, 2027, and serve as an artistic advisor through the end of 2027 to help ensure a smooth transition.
Jorden Morris has spent more than 50 years in ballet as a dancer, teacher, choreographer and artistic leader. A former principal dancer with Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, he has created productions performed by companies across North America, including Peter Pan, The Great Gatsby and Moulin Rouge – The Ballet.
Moulin Rouge – The Ballet is scheduled to close out Orlando Ballet’s current season in May.
His career has also included choreographing for Queen Elizabeth II and artistic leadership roles with Boston Ballet, Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Citie Ballet.
Morris joined Orlando Ballet as Artist in Residence in 2020 before being named Artistic Director at the end of 2021. During his tenure, the company says it has strengthened its artistic identity, expanded its audience and community reach, and elevated its national reputation. His work also includes a reimagined production of The Nutcracker, which debuted during the company’s 50th anniversary season.
Lisa Thorn Morris joined Orlando Ballet in 2015 and has served in several leadership roles, including rehearsal director and repetiteur. The former professional dancer has helped oversee productions, dancer development and artistic initiatives.
She is expected to remain connected to the company by staging select works by Jorden Morris, including future productions of The Nutcracker.
“Lisa and I have poured our hearts into this organization, and we are incredibly proud of what we have accomplished alongside our dancers, staff, Board and supporters,” Jorden Morris said in a statement. “Orlando Ballet is thriving, and this feels like the right moment to pass the baton.”
The announcement comes after what Orlando Ballet describes as the most successful season in its history, with record fundraising, attendance and community impact.
The company’s board of directors has already begun the search for its next Artistic Director. Orlando Ballet says it is looking for a leader who can build on its artistic foundation while providing a vision for the company’s continued growth.
Executive Director Bradley Renner said the Morrises’ influence extends beyond the stage to the ballet’s school and community programs.
Orlando Ballet says it will continue focusing on its current season and serving audiences, students and the Central Florida community throughout the transition.
Additional opportunities to celebrate Jorden and Lisa Thorn Morris’ contributions are expected to be announced in 2027.