2026 World Finals Judge
Chris Hocking
Chris has had an extensive stage career in many styles, and subsequently followed into direction and choreography. Like many outstanding artists he has chosen to give back to his artform, by leading the younger generation in masterclasses, coaching and participating on the panels of dance competitions, including DWC, where his broad experience of the classical canon and the stalwart repertory of musical theatre and perceptive eye for technique and artistry are appreciated.
He started as a neutral observer of his sister’s dance classes, patiently waiting for them to finish, taking mental notes of corrections in technique and projection, until personally challenged by curiosity to join in. By sixth form he knew this was his path. He studied Cecchetti Ballet with Nesta Brooking, National/Folklore with Robert Harold, Contemporary/Modern/Lyrical with Anthony Van Laast, and Jazz and Tap with Jack Gunn. After a successful ballet career, he discovered that he had a voice, a bass baritone, and could act, the complement for the triple threat, and thus he transitioned in musical theatre. He appeared in London’s West End in Hello, Dolly!, Chess, Carousel, On the Town, Barnum, Rocky Horror, Hot Stuff and The King and I. Chris has also directed and choreographed many shows including UK and international tours of Fiddler On The Roof, Oklahoma, South Pacific, Jekyll & Hyde and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
Over decades, Chris has taught at both national and international vocational schools and many of his pupils are now appearing professionally. He has added his considerable enthusiasm and expertise to the area of international dance festivals. The crossed-legged intrigued boy has matured into a seasoned and valued artist, choreographer, coach, judge and Master of Arts in Choreography from Middlesex University. When he judges for DWC, he still has that critical eye, but fully appreciates the evolutionary process of a dancer’s development and changing capabilities.
Reference BIG INTERVIEW: Chris Hocking | Ink Pellet The personal recollection stuff came from this interview.
He started as a neutral observer of his sister’s dance classes, patiently waiting for them to finish, taking mental notes of corrections in technique and projection, until personally challenged by curiosity to join in. By sixth form he knew this was his path. He studied Cecchetti Ballet with Nesta Brooking, National/Folklore with Robert Harold, Contemporary/Modern/Lyrical with Anthony Van Laast, and Jazz and Tap with Jack Gunn. After a successful ballet career, he discovered that he had a voice, a bass baritone, and could act, the complement for the triple threat, and thus he transitioned in musical theatre. He appeared in London’s West End in Hello, Dolly!, Chess, Carousel, On the Town, Barnum, Rocky Horror, Hot Stuff and The King and I. Chris has also directed and choreographed many shows including UK and international tours of Fiddler On The Roof, Oklahoma, South Pacific, Jekyll & Hyde and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
Over decades, Chris has taught at both national and international vocational schools and many of his pupils are now appearing professionally. He has added his considerable enthusiasm and expertise to the area of international dance festivals. The crossed-legged intrigued boy has matured into a seasoned and valued artist, choreographer, coach, judge and Master of Arts in Choreography from Middlesex University. When he judges for DWC, he still has that critical eye, but fully appreciates the evolutionary process of a dancer’s development and changing capabilities.
Reference BIG INTERVIEW: Chris Hocking | Ink Pellet The personal recollection stuff came from this interview.