Jody O’Grady was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. She joined the staff of Encore in 1999.

Jody studied ballet and modern at the University of Cincinnati’s Conservatory of Music from 1972-1977. She studied under James Truitt (a soloist with Alvin Ailey), and Lester Horton (modern technique) from 1973-1977. She was a member of Annelise Von Oettizers Ballet Company Cincinnati, Ohio and Eagle Bay New York 1975-1981.

Jody graduated with honors from Butler University in 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts in dance. While attending Butler she was a member of their ballet and jazz company. She performed with the Indianapolis Opera Company – “Carmen and Aieda” in 1979 and with the Cincinnati Opera Company in 1981. She was a member of the Sue Cobb and Dancers Jazz and Modern Company in Cincinnati, Ohio from 1981-1985.

From 1985 – 1989, Jody was a member of the Moving Feet Dance Company, Sarasota Springs, New York. She performed at Skidmoore College, Albany New Yorks Performing Arts Loft with Dancers Jazz and Modern Company.

Jody began teaching in 1975 at schools, studios and colleges in Ohio, Indiana and New York. She has taught ballet, tap, jazz, modern, creative movement, aerobics and exercise.

Jody’s positive, nurturing and encouraging approach to teaching makes her a true asset to Encore.