Joanne Lara's life journey commenced on June 3, 1952, in the charming town of Monticello, Georgia, where the warm and inviting atmosphere of her childhood home nurtured her growth and development. As she blossomed into a young adult, Lara's family relocated to Tampa, Florida, a vibrant city that would serve as the backdrop for her formative years. It was in Tampa that Lara's passion for dance first ignited, kindling a flame that would guide her future endeavors. With unwavering dedication, she pursued her artistic aspirations, ultimately graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the prestigious University of South Florida.
Following the successful culmination of her academic pursuits, Joanne embarked on a distinguished dance career with the revered Fairmount Dance Theatre in Cleveland, Ohio, where she occupied the prestigious role of Head of the Dance Department at Cayahoga Community College, a position that commanded great respect and responsibility.
As Joanne continued to refine her artistic skills, she immersed herself in the vibrant dance scene of New York, where she had the privilege of performing with the esteemed Louis Falco Dance Company, a renowned institution that showcased her exceptional talent.
Under the watchful eyes of two highly respected mentors, Joanne embarked on a journey of self-discovery and artistic growth, as she delved into the world of acting, guided by the expertise of Sandeed Shurin from the prestigious Actors Studio, a legendary institution that has nurtured the talents of countless thespians throughout its storied history.
Meanwhile, Mervyn Nelson, a master of his craft, offered Joanne invaluable insights and techniques, honing her skills and helping her to develop a deeper understanding of the art of acting, as she navigated the complexities of her craft and prepared herself for the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.
Joanne's life took a significant turn in 1985 when she made the bold decision to relocate to the vibrant city of Los Angeles, a hub for the entertainment industry, where she could pursue her long-held passion for acting by enrolling in the esteemed Stella Adler Conservatory, a renowned institution that has produced some of the most talented performers in the business. This marked the beginning of a journey that would see her appear in a wide range of film, television, and stage productions throughout her illustrious career, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Joanne's professional endeavors extended far beyond her impressive acting career, as she simultaneously explored the realm of film production, taking on multifaceted roles that showcased her versatility and dedication to the craft.
As an associate producer, Joanne played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in several projects, utilizing her expertise to ensure the smooth operation of production logistics and contribute to the overall success of the films.
Furthermore, Joanne served as Assistant to the Director on various projects, honing her skills in collaboration and communication as she worked closely with the director to bring their vision to life.
Some of her notable credits in film production include "To Kill For", "Motorama", and "Wigstock: The Movie", demonstrating her adaptability and range in a variety of contexts and genres.
Through her work in film production, Joanne demonstrated a keen understanding of the industry, as well as a passion for storytelling and a commitment to her craft, solidifying her position as a talented and multifaceted artist.
Joanne's unwavering commitment to her artistic pursuits spanned the entirety of her life, as evidenced by the impressive body of work she left behind, comprising no fewer than six feature-length screenplays and a novel of considerable literary merit.
Joanne Lara's life was cut short when she succumbed to the devastating effects of ovarian cancer on June 9, 2020, at the tender age of 68, leaving behind an enduring legacy that would forever be etched in the annals of the dance and entertainment world, a testament to her remarkable talent and boundless contributions that continue to inspire and captivate audiences to this very day.
