Melissa Jane Lanham

Melissa is an independent choreographer, freelance artist, and educator with three decades of creative leadership in Australia and the United Kingdom. Beginning her career as a classical ballet and musical theatre dancer, she soon embraced contemporary dance, exploring how movement can illuminate social narratives and give voice to communities.

Over the years, Melissa has collaborated with some of the era’s most influential performers in musical theatre and commercial work, continually refining her craft and expanding her artistic vision. Her work is distinguished by a steadfast commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Melissa has produced and facilitated large-scale youth dance initiatives as well as community-based and socially inclusive projects, earning recognition through multiple Australia Day Award nominations for her meaningful contributions to the arts and her community.

Excerpts of her work are used by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority for Year 12 assessment, reflecting her impact on education and practice.

Her professional experience spans roles as tour manager, project facilitator, and movement director, with collaborations that include the British Arts Council, DanceEast UK, Ausdance Queensland, and numerous organizations across the sector. Melissa co-leads LJ Projects, a dynamic dance theatre company she founded with Chloe Keating. Through LJ Projects, she creates, directs, and produces original performances that blend technical rigor with expansive storytelling, pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance while remaining rooted in human connection. Her ongoing body of work continues to explore movement as a catalyst for dialogue, empowerment, and inclusion, inviting audiences to experience dance as a communal and transformative art form.