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Sharon Watson

Artistic Director, Phoenix Dance Theatre

Sharon Watson

"Although Sharon's work has been national and international she maintains a personal approach born from an appreciation of how transformational her opportunities have been for her. She has become an inspiration to others attempting to make that difficult transition from accomplished artist to cultural leader."

Despite being a relatively new Artistic Director, Sharon Watson has already connected with a network of artists inside and outside the world of dance. One of a handful of dancers from the underprivileged Harehills area of Leeds given the chance to forge careers in dance during the early growth of Phoenix Dance Theatre, Sharon’s personal approach is born from an appreciation of how those opportunities developed her into an internationally performed choreographer. Committed to ensuring that better opportunities arise for others, her intimate knowledge of Phoenix Dance Theatre, alongside her natural leadership, have allowed her to hit the floor running.

Ensuring that she builds on the necessary skills to lead, Sharon is committed to continuous personal development, most recently embarking on a fellowship with the Clore Leadership Programme and a Performance Works MA at Leeds Metropolitan University. 

Sharon’s current role involves leading Phoenix as they move into their purpose built space within a brand new £12 million building shared with Northern Ballet Theatre. Operating at the highest level of senior management, she brings an artist’s instincts to problem solving, balancing those qualities with hard edged commitment to quality and achievement.