Jordan Simmons

Richmond native and proud graduate of JFK High, Jordan Simmons served as Artistic Director at the East Bay Center for the Performing Arts (1984 – 2021) and has been a faculty member since 1974. A graduate of Reed College, active Mestre of Capoeira, licensed Shakuhachi (Japanese flute) teacher, and theater director, Mr. Simmons’ portfolio includes more than 50 productions for theater and film – many of which have focused on the lives and concerns of youth and young adults from Richmond’s Iron Triangle and surrounding neighborhoods. Recognition for Mr. Simmons’ work has ranged from the Governor of California’s Award for “Outstanding Individual in the Arts” to the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences “Outstanding Contribution to the Bay Area Arts,” an inaugural City of Richmond Human RightsAward, and San Francisco Foundation’s Helen Crocker Russell Award: presented to an “under-recognized, mature artist who has made a significant and ongoing contribution in the SF Bay Area.”