2026 World Finals Judge
Chris Holland
Chris Holland is a highly acclaimed performer and vocal coach whose career spans over twenty years in West End theatre. He made his debut in the legendary original production of Miss Saigon at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in 1993. This acclaimed debut launched an astonishing journey through many of musical theatre’s most iconic roles in some of the world’s greatest shows. His extensive credits include Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, Dirty Dancing, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, We Will Rock You, Grease, The Official Tribute to The Blues Brothers and Titanic. Chris has also had the privilege of originating roles in new works, including Rags Ryan in Burlesque and Davy Harrison in The Last Ship alongside Sting. He also performs as a vocalist for concerts and orchestral events and has a one-man show.
Known for his powerful voice, dynamic stage presence and emotional honesty, Chris brings depth, precision and storytelling flair to every performance, and he is now dedicated to passing on these skills to the next generation. He has been teaching singing and acting to students of distinguished UK and Irish MT colleges and Conservatoire’s. Based in Dublin since 2014, Chris is a highly popular vocal coach. He teaches Leaving Certificate practical exams with exceptional success and is successful at preparing students for London College of Music examinations and entry to leading UK conservatoires and onwards to appearing in major productions across the UK and beyond. His specialist focus is acting through song—helping singers bring truth, confidence and individuality to their performances.
He holds the highest award of Fellowship of the London College of Music. His perceptive input to specialist evaluation of the MT elements in the programme of the DWC competition is gratefully appreciated.
Known for his powerful voice, dynamic stage presence and emotional honesty, Chris brings depth, precision and storytelling flair to every performance, and he is now dedicated to passing on these skills to the next generation. He has been teaching singing and acting to students of distinguished UK and Irish MT colleges and Conservatoire’s. Based in Dublin since 2014, Chris is a highly popular vocal coach. He teaches Leaving Certificate practical exams with exceptional success and is successful at preparing students for London College of Music examinations and entry to leading UK conservatoires and onwards to appearing in major productions across the UK and beyond. His specialist focus is acting through song—helping singers bring truth, confidence and individuality to their performances.
He holds the highest award of Fellowship of the London College of Music. His perceptive input to specialist evaluation of the MT elements in the programme of the DWC competition is gratefully appreciated.
