Jo McKinley

Director of GDANCE Academy, Classical Ballet Coach and Choreographer

Jo has trained from the age of 6 in Classical Ballet, Jazz, Music Theatre, Tap, Contemporary, Scottish and National Character dance. She has also studied Acting, Contemporary Singing and Public Speaking and holds a Bachelor of Communication.

Jo completed the Royal Academy of Dance examination syllabus and passed her teaching examination with high distinction. She has coached students who are now in professional dance training institutions and companies all over the world.

Jo’s music theatre credits include: The Producers, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Guys and Dolls, A Chorus Line and Chicago to name a few. Jo has choreographed a multitude of award winning pieces and continues to stage new work each year.

Jo has taught and choreographed for several of Canberra's premier dance institutions as well as guest teaching around Australia. She opened the Gungahlin Dance Academy (now GDANCE) in 2002. She has enjoyed exceptional results with her students during this time with her dedication to the students' technical training in classical ballet.

Jo has carefully crafted the Dance. Play. Grow.™pre-school dance curriculum, an innovative and refreshing approach to children's pre-school dance education which launched nationwide in 2018.