In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Stephen Moynihan is joined by Vicki Dela Amedume MBE, acclaimed aerial and circus director, and founder of contemporary circus company Upswing.

They explore Vicki's journey from performer to artistic leader, the evolving landscape of contemporary circus, and contrasting perceptions of the art form in France and the UK.

The conversation delves into the politics and storytelling power of circus, its ability to bring communities together, and Vicki's work challenging perceptions of who circus is for. From creating opportunities for diverse practitioners to exploring circus with older adults, Vicki shares her vision for a more inclusive, accessible and sustainable future for the art form.

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In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry is joined by Amit Lahav, founder and Artistic Director of the internationally acclaimed physical theatre company Gecko.

Together, they explore the experiences that have shaped Amit’s artistic voice and Gecko’s extraordinary creative journey. Their conversation delves into the company's detailed and deeply considered devising process, the importance of trust and human connection within an ensemble, and the curiosity, collaboration and willingness to embrace uncertainty that continues to drive Amit’s work.

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In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Stephen Moynihan is joined by Movement Director, Choreographer and Educator Struan Leslie to explore how a lifelong curiosity about movement has shaped a career spanning dance, theatre, opera and performance.

Struan shares his journey from Dundee to working internationally, including his role as Head of Movement at the Royal Shakespeare Company and the development of the new MFA in Movement Direction at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama. They discuss the influences and experiences that have shaped his practice, approaches to movement training and education, and the importance of curiosity, interdisciplinary exploration and lifelong learning.

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In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Stephen Moynihan is joined by Fight Director, Movement Director and Intimacy Director Yarit Dor to explore her multifaceted journey across dance, martial arts, movement, stage combat and intimacy.

Yarit shares how her interdisciplinary practice has evolved, the importance of creating safe and collaborative creative environments, and the role of communication, trust and boundaries in the rehearsal room. They also discuss recognition and visibility for movement practitioners, the infrastructure needed to support safer working practices, and the possibilities that emerge when disciplines come together.

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In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry is joined by movement practitioner Davide Bonetti to explore acrodance and movement beyond technique. Drawing on his background in contemporary circus, parkour, breakdance and capoeira, Davide shares how these diverse practices have shaped his approach to movement, performance and teaching.

Together they explore movement awareness, curiosity and independence, and consider the relationship between physical practice and life. Davide also shares his philosophy of movement as a source of vitality, connection and creative exploration.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan unpack 10 unexpected challenges that movement directors and choreographers face on set, and how to navigate them with clarity, flexibility, and professionalism.

From transport logistics and late call sheets to script changes, long days, hierarchy, and protecting the integrity of movement, this conversation offers a grounded look at what screen work really demands behind the scenes. Sarah and Stephen also discuss the importance of preparation, communication, collaboration, and staying kind under pressure.

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In this episode of the Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry is joined by director, movement director, choreographer and intimacy coordinator Anna Morrissey to explore the creative world of opera. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience with the Royal Opera House and leading theatre companies, Anna shares how movement, music, design and performance come together to create powerful storytelling on stage.

Together they discuss the unique role of the movement director in opera, balancing tradition with contemporary approaches, working closely with singers, directors and designers, and reimagining classic works for modern audiences. Anna also reflects on her career across opera, theatre and film, offering valuable insights into creative leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration and the evolving craft of performance-making.

Whether you're a performer, director, movement practitioner, designer, musician or opera enthusiast, this episode offers a fascinating look inside one of the performing arts' most richly collaborative art forms.

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