Louisa Turnbull

Name: Louisa Turnbull

Company:

Dance Level: Emerging

Bio

I am a versatile dance artist and emerging choreographer with a strong foundation in musical theatre, jazz, tap, lyrical, Fosse, and traditional ceilidh dance. My practice is rooted in performance, musicality, and character-driven movement, drawing on the theatrical nature of dance to tell engaging and accessible stories.

My choreographic voice is influenced by the stylised precision of Fosse, the rhythm and percussive detail of tap, and the expressive fluidity of lyrical movement. I am particularly interested in narrative-led choreography, using movement to develop character, atmosphere, and connection with audiences. I aim to create work that is both entertaining and meaningful, with a strong focus on clarity, intention, and emotional resonance.

I have performed and choreographed in a range of amateur musicals and showcases, experiences that have strengthened my stage presence and deepened my understanding of ensemble work and storytelling. Alongside performing, I have developed a passion for teaching and choreography, working with children in theatre schools to create engaging and confidence-building pieces that encourage creativity and self-expression.

My wider performance experience includes working as a children’s character performer in immersive and interactive environments, including roles as an elf and a scare actor. These opportunities have strengthened my improvisation skills and reinforced the importance of audience engagement within my practice. I am currently expanding this work as a children’s entertainer with P&O Ferries, performing as a pirate and unicorn princess, where I continue to combine dance, character, and storytelling in lively, interactive settings.

As a choreographer, I am passionate about creating inclusive and imaginative work, particularly for young performers. I value collaboration and strive to create supportive environments where individuals feel empowered to explore movement and develop their confidence.

As part of One Dance UK, I am excited to connect with a wider network of artists, continue developing my choreographic voice, and contribute to a diverse and vibrant dance community.

Dance Style: Ballroom,Classical Ballet,Jazz,Lyrical,Other,Tango,Tap

Work Context: Other

Personal Contact

Telephone: 07415124183

Email: Louisa.turnbull@talktalk.net

Credits

September 2025–Present

Dance Teacher/Choreographer – DSP Performing, London

I teach and choreograph musical theatre dances for children aged five to sixteen, focusing on developing their technique, performance quality, and confidence through a variety of exercises and warm-ups. I create routines for showcases, ensemble exams, and final-year musicals, tailoring choreography to suit different skill levels while maintaining engaging, narrative-driven, and performance-ready pieces.


April 2025

Choreographer – Roehampton Players

I choreographed Little Shop of Horrors, creating lift sections and movement-based routines that supported the narrative storytelling of the production. I contributed as part of a team reintroducing theatre and the arts to the university after a period of inactivity, helping to re-establish a creative performance culture.


May 2024

Choreographer – Roehampton University

I choreographed an original piece titled Extra-Unordinary, combining musical theatre with audience participation to create an interactive performance. Working with a trained dancer, I drew inspiration from Bauhaus and Pippin, and focused on integrating breath control and stamina into the choreography to support singing alongside fast-paced movement.


May–September 2023

Choreographer – Essex Police Musical Society

I choreographed the concert Time To Shine, creating routines across a variety of styles including upbeat jazz, heels, and Fosse. I worked with props and collaborated with performers from diverse dance backgrounds, adapting choreography to suit varying skill levels while maintaining performance quality.


November 2022–April 2023

Choreographer – Essex Police Musical Society

I served as choreographer for The Pajama Game, delivering choreography across multiple performances. My work incorporated styles such as modern, Fosse, and Argentine tango, alongside partner work and prop integration. I led a featured dance team and supported non-dancers in developing their technique to a performance-ready standard.


June 2022

Producer/Choreographer – Reading University Drama Society (RUDS)

I co-produced and choreographed Oliver! as part of a 48-hour charity performance, managing logistics including programme creation, ticket sales, costumes, and props. I created and taught choreography within a highly limited timeframe, ensuring a cohesive and engaging final performance.


January–June 2022

Choreographer/Co-Director – University of Reading

For my theatre dissertation A is for Alabama, I explored the under-representation of girls with autism in media through research-informed practice. Drawing on influences from television, literature, and lived experiences, I choreographed a lyrical piece expressing the emotional complexity of masking and social adaptation.


January–March 2022

Choreographer – Reading University Drama Society (RUDS)

I choreographed Sunshine on Leith, incorporating styles such as modern, musical theatre, and traditional Scottish ceilidh dance. I adapted choreography to suit a cast of mixed ability, creating engaging and accessible routines while developing performers’ confidence and skills.


September–December 2021

Producer/Choreographer – Reading University Drama Society (RUDS)

I produced and choreographed the RUDS Back on Stage Showcase 2021, bringing together students from multiple societies to perform. I secured sponsorship and prizes from local businesses to support fundraising for The Ollie Young Foundation, contributing to the production receiving the university award for Best Fundraiser. I also choreographed and directed a Les Misérables medley, blending acting through song with modern dance.