If one word characterizes Zanne Beaufort Colton, it is "presence." She has that magical ability to compel our attention, on stage and off. What is the source of this presence? Her vitality? Her sense of total dedication? Whatever the source, it is no wonder she has achieved true stardom, not only in dancing, but in directing, teaching, administering, publicizing — in all the many jobs she does so well.

A great performer is always a creator, not merely a mimic. Augusta audiences remember Zanne´s poignantly unforgettable Swan Queen, her uniquely flirtatious Swanilda and passionate Giselle. It is her uniqueness that has prompted the creation of ballets especially for her, such as "Episode," "Mandolina," and "The Rookery." She is, in a word, Augusta´s premier contribution to the world of dance. For Zanne, that´s the only world there is.

Beginning her studies at age six, her first instructors were Alexis Dolinoff and Sallie Carlson. Upon Ron Colton´s arrival, she was immediately recognized as an outstanding student, and after four years of intensive study with Colton, she received a full Ford Foundation scholarship with Balanchine´s School of American Ballet. Notable instructors throughout the years have included Vera Volkova, Muriel Stuart, Robert Barnett, Duncan Noble, Stanley Zompakos and Stanley Williams. She appeared with the Charleston Ballet Company and as a principal soloist with the Atlanta Ballet. She was also one of the original members of the Atlanta Ballet´s professional touring ensemble.

An experienced teacher/ballet mistress, she has set ballets throughout the Southeast and was selected to perform professionally at several nationally sponsored choreographer´s conferences. She has served as a panelist for the Artists-in-the-Schools and the Artist Initiated Programs of the Georgia Council for the Arts.