John-William Watson is a freelance, Leeds based, choreographer, director and dancer.

After graduating from The Royal Conservatoire of Antwerp in 2019, they swiftly carved a path for themselves creating critically acclaimed, surreal, self-described ‘dance-plays’ - often exploring the interplay between science fiction, dark-comedy and contemporary dance.

Watson has previously received commissions from organisations such as Sadler’s Wells, Messums West and The Riley Theatre. They were a Young Associate Choreographer at Sadler’s Wells 2020-22, Northern Connection Artist 2021/22, and Messums West 4x20 Artist 2023.  

They have presented work at Sadler’s Wells Main House UK, Sadler’s Wells Lillian Baylis UK, The Riley Theatre UK, Birmingham Hippodrome UK, Pavilion Dance South West UK, Messums West UK, Bartholomew Fair UK, Teatro Vascello IT, Noorderlicht Festival BE & Théâtre Basse Passière FR.


John-William Watson

JUST WHAT THE WIDE WORLD OF DANCE NEEDS RIGHT NOW.

— ARTICLE 19 on ‘I Would Like To Go Over There’ - 2022

LAUGH-OUT-LOUD

— THE STAGE on ‘Hang in There, Baby’ - 2022