Damien Poole

Damien Poole is a Lecturer specializing in Dance, teaching the BA (Hons) Musical Theatre program. He maintains a professional career alongside his academic role, actively leading classes at his acclaimed theatre school, Damien Poole Theatre Arts, based in Harrogate and Cross Hills. His work spans theatre, television, and film, with notable roles including originating characters in major West End productions like Shrek the Musical and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, as well as appearing in Grease, Gypsy, and Groundhog Day (which won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical). He has also contributed to soundtracks such as Josh Groban's Anthem and served as a backing singer for Adele at Wembley Stadium.

Specializing in Jazz Dance, Tap, Choreography, and Repertoire, Poole's expertise blends performance and pedagogy. He established 'Show in a Week' to engage Dutch children in Musical Theatre, reflecting his commitment to educational outreach. His theatre experience includes roles as Dance Captain, Swing, and Assistant Dance Captain, alongside TV appearances in Emmerdale, My Parents Are Aliens, and others. For the past decade, he has conducted workshops, talks, and masterclasses across the UK and Netherlands, emphasizing practical training in musical theatre disciplines.

Poole's professional narrative intersects with his teaching, maintaining a presence at his own theatre school while contributing to major productions. His career highlights the synergy between artistic performance and educational leadership, though no formal scientific awards or grants are explicitly mentioned in his profile.