Jo Hawes CDG trained at LAMDA and began her career at the Theatre Royal Windsor in Stage Management. In London she was part of the Stage
Management teams for ANNIE, THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE, ON YOUR
TOES and LA CAGES AUX FOLLES.
Following several years as a
theatrical PA she became the Children’s Casting Director for OLIVER! at the
London Palladium in 1995. Many spectacular shows have followed and
current productions (prior to lockdown) included LES MISERABLES in London
and on tour, MARY POPPINS, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING
TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT, THE SOUND OF MUSIC Tour and
IDENTICAL. Jo recently cast a very exciting workshop of a new reworking of
BEDKNOBS AND BROOMSTICKS.
Jo runs a variety of courses and classes for children in the UK and abroad
including Masterclasses in the Art of Auditioning, Performing Arts Holiday
Courses with Mark Hedges and Carrie Grant and Mental Health Courses for
chaperones. During lockdown she has done many Facetime and Zoom 121’s
to advise children and parents whilst we are unable to meet in person.
In 2012 she was commissioned by Oberon to write CHILDREN IN THEATRE
– a guide for parents who find they have a performing child in their family.
Jo has been married to Tim, a trumpet player, for 35 years and she is proud
that all their children are involved in our industry.
She is thrilled and honoured to have been awarded the 2020 Olivier Special
Recognition Award.
Jo Hawes Website