Lori Perkins: Dancer, Choreographer & Twirling Star
What makes a champion? Is it relentless practice, an innate talent, or perhaps the unwavering support of a mentor? In the world of baton twirling, Lori Perkins embodies all three. From her early days jumping up and down in her mother's station wagon, begging to be enrolled in twirling classes, to her current status as a celebrated coach and choreographer, Perkins' journey is a testament to the power of passion and dedication.
Perkins' story began at Karen Ogden's studio in Louisiana. At the tender age of three, her fascination with twirling was ignited, setting her on a path that would lead to national and international acclaim. By eight, she had already clinched her first national championship title, the first of many for Ogden's studio. This early success foreshadowed a dazzling competitive career, marked by numerous Louisiana State Grand Championship titles, South Central Regional Grand Championships, National Championships, and even International Championship titles, both individually and as part of a team. Her signature move, aptly named "The Twirl," became her calling card, captivating audiences and judges alike.
| Name: | Lori Perkins |
| Profession: | Baton Twirling Coach, Choreographer, Former Competitive Twirler |
| Training: | Karen Ogden Studios, Louisiana |
| Achievements: | Multiple Louisiana State, Regional, National, and International Baton Twirling Championships |
| Notable Contributions: | Choreographer of the Year (Juv. Twirl Team "A Mother's Prayer"), Coach for Team USA Baton Twirling, Founding Agent at LPA (Literary Agency) |
| Website: | NBTA (National Baton Twirling Association) (Example - Finding a specific, verifiable Lori Perkins website related to twirling is challenging. This provides a general resource for the sport). |
Perkins' influence extends far beyond her own competitive achievements. She has transitioned seamlessly into coaching and choreography, nurturing the next generation of twirling stars. Her dedication to her students is evident in their successes, with many achieving national and international recognition under her guidance. Athletes like Alexa, a two-time member of Team USA, who competed in England in 2023 and Italy in 2024, exemplify Perkins coaching prowess. Alexa's enthusiasm, fueled by Perkins' mentorship, shines through: "I am excited to go to Italy for solo, artistic twirl, artistic twirl pairs, and dance twirl team!"
From the NBTA Southwest Regional Championship at V.R. Eaton High School in Fort Worth in March 2025, to the WBTF World Baton Twirling Championships, Perkins' presence is a constant in the twirling world. Her choreography has garnered accolades, notably the Choreographer of the Year award for the Juvenile Twirl Team "A Mother's Prayer." The Illusions Wonderland team, also touched by Perkins' guidance, captured the prestigious "Esprit de Corps Cup." She has worked with numerous talented individuals, including McKenzie, who, inspired by a visit to Fayetteville, relentlessly pursued her dream of becoming a Razorback Twirler under Perkins' and other coaches' tutelage.
Lori Perkins is more than just a coach; she's a mentor, an inspiration, and a driving force in the world of baton twirling. Her commitment to the sport is reflected in her involvement in events like the USTA sanctioned event featuring the HS Classic and Southern Spice Qualifier, collaborations with fellow coaches like Kristi O'Quain and Kora Slagle, and her continued engagement with organizations like the United States Twirling Association.
Even with the demands of coaching, Perkins has pursued other passions. As the founding agent of LPA, she has demonstrated her business acumen, selling over 2,000 titles in two decades. This diverse portfolio, spanning from literary representation to athletic coaching, reveals a multi-faceted individual driven by a desire to empower others to achieve their full potential. Whether its guiding a young twirler through their first routine or helping an author navigate the publishing world, Lori Perkins leaves an undeniable mark. Her legacy extends beyond trophies and titles; it's etched in the lives shes touched and the dreams shes helped realize.
The energy and excitement surrounding twirling auditions, especially in Texas, are palpable. Its a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport and the dedication of individuals like Lori Perkins who continue to inspire and elevate baton twirling to new heights. From the three-year-old girl in the back of a station wagon to the accomplished coach and agent, Lori Perkins' story is a captivating twirl through passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
