Episodes

  • 018: 'Theo Clinkard on Dance and Identity through play and performance'

    018: 'Theo Clinkard on Dance and Identity through play and performance'
    Jun 18 2025

    In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Stephen Moynihan speaks with acclaimed choreographer and performer Theo Clinkard about his journey from Cornwall to an international career in dance. Theo reflects on how boarding school shaped his identity, how grief became a catalyst for creating his own work, and the role of authenticity, play, and queerness in his artistic practice.

    They explore the challenges facing emerging artists, the importance of mentorship, and the value of local, sustainable creativity outside major cities. Theo also shares insights into his design-led approach to performance and his commitment to creating inclusive, expressive spaces for artists. With a career spanning dance, film, opera, and theatre, Theo has worked with renowned UK choreographers including Matthew Bourne, Wayne McGregor, Siobhan Davies, and Lea Anderson, and more recently brought his expertise to screen as Movement Director on Good Luck to You, Leo Grande (starring Emma Thompson) and Jimpa (starring Olivia Colman and John Lithgow).

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    52 mins
  • 017: 'Ingrid Mackinnon on Dance, Direction and Diverse Voices'

    017: 'Ingrid Mackinnon on Dance, Direction and Diverse Voices'
    Jun 4 2025
    In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, host Stephen Moynihan speaks with Ingrid MacKinnon about her journey from growing up in Canada to becoming a movement director in the UK. They discuss the impact of representation in dance, the cultural differences between North American and UK dance scenes, and Ingrid's transition from performance to choreography and movement direction. Ingrid shares her experiences in dance education, the importance of kinesiology, and how she articulates her ideas in collaborative spaces. In this conversation, Ingrid MacKinnon discusses her journey as a movement director and intimacy professional, emphasising the importance of collaboration, joy in the creative process, and the evolving recognition of movement directors in the industry. She highlights the need for greater visibility and understanding of the role, as well as the challenges faced by performers, particularly parents, in balancing their careers with family life. Ingrid shares her aspirations for the future, including working on projects that represent diverse stories and voices.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • 016: 'From Page to Performance: Literature’s Role in Movement and Acting'

    016: 'From Page to Performance: Literature’s Role in Movement and Acting'
    May 21 2025
    In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan explore the rich relationship between literature and movement. They share how books influence their creative practices as movement directors and creatives, the role of reading in script analysis and character development, and the joy of discovering inspiration in bookshops. From historical context to the psychology of movement, this conversation reveals how words shape performance, storytelling, and the artistic process.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • 015: 'Movement and Writing; A Poet's Journey with Susan Richardson'

    015: 'Movement and Writing; A Poet's Journey with Susan Richardson'
    May 7 2025
    In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, Sarah Perry speaks with writer and poet Susan Richardson about the profound relationship between writing and movement. They explore how the body and the written word intertwine, the role of research in creative work, and the power of poetry to celebrate biodiversity and give voice to the natural world. Susan shares her personal journey with writing and movement, including her ambitious challenge of exploring 52 different dance styles in a year. We discuss how movement not only enhances physical wellbeing but also serves as a powerful tool for overcoming creative blocks and deepening artistic expression. Join Sarah and Susan for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion on the dynamic interplay between movement, writing, and inspiration.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • 014: 'Movement Specialists and Casting: Building Teams for Screen Success'

    014: 'Movement Specialists and Casting: Building Teams for Screen Success'
    Apr 23 2025
    In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, Stephen Moynihan and Sarah Perry delve into the intricate relationship between movement directors, choreographers, and performers in the realms of TV and film. They discuss the casting process, the importance of collaboration, and the need for reliable performers. The conversation highlights the challenges faced when working with supporting artists and the potential for movement specialists to elevate productions. As they look to the future, they emphasise the importance of building networks and championing the skills of movement specialists within the industry.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
  • 013: 'Embodied Expression: Marie-Gabrielle Rotie on Butoh, Choreography & Creativity'

    013: 'Embodied Expression: Marie-Gabrielle Rotie on Butoh, Choreography & Creativity'
    Apr 9 2025
    In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, host Stephen Moynihan speaks with choreographer and artist Marie-Gabrielle Rotie about her artistic journey, the discovery of Butoh, and its influence on her work. They explore the origins and philosophy of Butoh, its connection to nature, and the transition from live performance to film. Marie-Gabrielle shares insights into her creative process, the role of assistants in choreography, and her aspirations for future collaborations.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • 012: 'Empowering Choreographers and Movement Directors: A New Era with Toby James TV and Film Organiser at Equity'

    012: 'Empowering Choreographers and Movement Directors: A New Era with Toby James TV and Film Organiser at Equity'
    Mar 26 2025
    Toby James is the Film and TV Organiser at Equity, the trade union for performers and creative professionals in the performing arts. Equity members are pushing for proper, collectively bargained agreements for choreographers and movement directors. In this engaging conversation, Sarah Perry and Toby James discuss the evolving role of movement directors and choreographers within the Equity trade union. They explore the challenges faced by these professionals, the importance of collective bargaining, and the need for recognition in contracts. The discussion highlights the positive changes occurring in the industry, the impact of AI, and the steps necessary for movement directors and choreographers to advocate for their rights and roles effectively. In this conversation, Toby James discusses the evolution of trade unions for movement directors and choreographers, emphasising the need for representation and empowerment within committees. He highlights the importance of collaboration across various disciplines in the performing arts and the ongoing negotiations with PACT to secure better contracts and recognition for both movement directors. The conversation also touches on the necessity of awareness and education about the roles of movement directors and choreographers in the industry.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    47 mins
  • 011: 'Unveiling the Creative Process in Movement Direction and Choreography'

    011: 'Unveiling the Creative Process in Movement Direction and Choreography'
    Mar 12 2025
    In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan delve into the intricacies of creative processes in movement direction and choreography. They discuss the importance of research and preparation, share insights from their experiences, and explore how different mediums influence their work. The conversation highlights the need for alignment within creative teams and the challenges of navigating rejection in the creative process. They also touch on the significance of showcasing the often-hidden work of movement directors through video documentation, emphasising the collaborative nature of their craft.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    39 mins