Sharon Watson MBE DL

“I’m incredibly honoured to be asked to be Chair of Candoco Dance Company. I’ve always been inspired by the company’s continued commitment to expanding the perceptions of what dance can be. I believe deeply in the power of diversity in the arts to transform lives and enact meaningful change throughout society. I’m excited to be part of Candoco’s journey to ensure dance and disability remains at the forefront of the arts agenda and support a company that works hard to authentically inspire openness and inclusion in all they do.” – Sharon Watson MBE DL

With a career spanning over three decades, Sharon’s journey is marked by remarkable achievements, innovative choreography, and steadfast advocacy for diversity and inclusion within the arts. Sharon’s illustrious career began with her training at the London School of Contemporary Dance, where she honed her craft and emerged as one of the first female Principal Dancers to join the renowned Phoenix Dance Company. Her tenure with Phoenix Dance Theatre, spanning from 1989 to 1997, saw her shine as a performer and choreographer, leaving an indelible mark with groundbreaking works such as “Never Still” and “Shaded Limits”.

After a period of exploration and entrepreneurial ventures, including the establishment of her own company, ABCD, Sharon returned to Phoenix Dance Theatre in 2009 as the Artistic Director, a role she held for over a decade. During her tenure, she captivated audiences with her choreographic brilliance, creating masterpieces such as “Fast Lane”, “Melt” and “Windrush: Movement of the People”, which resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.

Sharon’s contributions to the arts have been widely recognised and celebrated. She has been honoured with prestigious awards, including the Sue Ryder “Yorkshire Women of Achievement in Business Award” and the title “Yorkshire Woman of the Year” in 2016.

Her leadership and impact were further acknowledged with the First English Woman’s Award for Arts and Culture in 2018 and an Honorary Fellowship from the Northern School of Contemporary Dance. In addition to her artistic achievements, Sharon is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the arts community. As a trustee of Factory International in Manchester she actively supports the creative voices of women and Black, Asian, and ethnic minority artists, striving to create a more equitable and representative cultural landscape. Sharon’s dedication to the arts extends beyond the stage, as evidenced by her appointment as a Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire in November 2020 and her recognition with an MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list in 2021. Her tireless advocacy, innovative choreography, and visionary leadership continue to shape the future of contemporary dance, inspiring generations of artists and audiences alike.