About
Jo Williams is Senior Lecturer and Programme Coordinator for the BA (Hons) Teaching of Musical Theatre, Lecturer in Musical Theatre Cabaret, and Musical Theatre Programme Coordinator for the BA (Hons) Musical Theatre with Film Acting at the University of Chichester Conservatoire.
Jo trained at the Victoria School of Dance under Paddy and Susan Hurlings before being awarded a scholarship to study at Laine Theatre Arts. Following graduation with honours, she enjoyed a diverse (triple threat) performance career, appearing in London’s West End, UK tours, plays, cabaret and circus before travelling the world as a performer, Assistant Dance Captain and Dance Captain on international cruise ships.
Alongside performing, Jo developed a passion for choreography, directing and creative leadership. On returning to the UK, she established a successful street dance company and Pilates business before joining the University of Chichester as an Associate Lecturer. After fourteen years teaching across the Conservatoire, she was promoted to Lecturer in Musical Theatre Cabaret before progressing to her current role as Senior Lecturer and Programme Coordinator.
Today, Jo leads the BA (Hons) Teaching of Musical Theatre programme, coordinates the musical theatre provision for BA (Hons) Musical Theatre with Film Acting, and produces, directs and choreographs a wide range of Conservatoire productions. Drawing on extensive industry experience, she brings a practical, contemporary approach to her teaching and creative practice.
Passionate about developing confident, adaptable performers, educators and creative leaders, Jo believes outstanding training combines technical excellence with resilience, humility and self-awareness. Drawing on her background in gymnastics, aerial performance and Pilates, she places equal importance on physical and mental wellbeing as the foundation for a long and successful career in the performing arts.
Jo is currently leading the continued development of the Teaching of Musical Theatre programme through innovative curriculum design, professional qualification partnerships, industry collaborations and community outreach projects. Her vision is to create graduates who leave Chichester not only as highly skilled performers, but also as inspiring teachers, directors, choreographers and leaders within the creative industries.
Jo believes that when you genuinely love what you do, work becomes a lifelong passion rather than simply a career. She strives to create an environment where students are challenged, supported and inspired to discover their own potential, embrace continuous learning and leave the University with the confidence to make a meaningful contribution to the performing arts industry.
