The Shapes in Motion Podcast

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, Sarah Perry speaks with Victoria Worsley, Feldenkrais teacher, former actor, and author of ‘ Feldenkrais for Actors: How to Do Less and Discover More.’ Victoria shares her journey from a 20-year acting career to discovering the Feldenkrais Method for herself, which transformed her approach to movement, recovery, and performance. Victoria discusses h...

In this episode, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan open up a vital conversation around ‘downtime’ in the creative world. They unpack the stigma behind being "out of work" and offer a refreshing reframe: downtime as a chance for growth. From financial planning and upskilling to finding joy in rest and celebrating small wins, this episode is a thoughtful exploration of how creatives can navigate bala...

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 explor...

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 shar...

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 o...

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...

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...

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, th...

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 un...

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...

In this episode, Sarah Perry chats with the amazing Elizabeth Cairns. Elizabeth is a coach, facilitator, trainer, writer and holistic therapist and has worked closely with scores of organisations and thousands of entrepreneurs. She understands just what it takes to create a thriving business and live an empowered life. They discuss the multifaceted challenges faced by creative entrepreneurs, inclu...

In this conversation, Neus Gil Cortes discusses her journey in the arts, the importance of leadership training, and the creation of her initiative, Lead and Create. She emphasises the need for vulnerability, trust, and genuine connection in leadership roles, particularly within the arts. Neus shares insights on how to empower future generations and redefine leadership in traditional hierarchies, a...

In this episode Sarah Perry chats with actor and motion capture performer Cheryl Burniston, discussing Cheryl's journey into the world of performance and motion capture. Cheryl emphasises the importance of finding a safe space to explore movement, researching the industry, preparing showreels and continuously learning new skills, she also highlights the collaborative nature of performance capture...

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, Stephen Moynihan and Sarah Perry delve into the world of motion capture, exploring its evolution, the skills required for performers, and the differences between motion capture and performance capture. Sarah shares her journey into the industry, the importance of preparation for actors, and the role of imagination in performance. They discuss the co...

In this episode, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan discuss the critical importance of wellbeing for actors, creatives, and freelancers in the arts. They explore the responsibilities of movement directors in supporting the mental and physical health of performers, the challenges faced by freelancers in maintaining a work-life balance, and practical strategies for fostering a supportive environment o...

In this episode, Sarah Perry chats with animator, animation educator and former VFX production manager Stuart Messinger discussing the animator's journey, highlighting education, performance and character movement. Stuart shares his path from storytelling fascination to industry success, emphasising connections, preparation and key skills for animators. They explore believability, collaboration, p...

In this episode, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan discuss how to get into the movement direction industry. They share their personal journeys and offer advice for emerging movement directors. They emphasise the importance of understanding performers and building a network of relationships. They also discuss the value of ongoing education and the need to find one's own unique style and niche in the...

In this final introductory episode Stephen Moynihan speaks to Sarah Perry, founder and creative director of Shapes in Moton, about the company’s origin and evolution. Shapes in Motion is a company that offers workshops and training in movement and performance to professional actors, movers, dancers, animators and creatives. It was formally established in 2010, but had been operating informally sin...

Sarah Perry shares her journey in the arts, from being a shy child to finding her confidence through acting and performing. She discusses how she transitioned from being an actor to a movement director, particularly in the field of motion capture. Sarah also talks about the balance between working in TV, film, and live action, and the importance of storytelling through movement. The conversation c...

In this conversation, Sarah Perry interviews Stephen Moynihan to introduce him to the listeners. They discuss Stephen's background in movement directing and choreography, his passion for dance and movement, and his experiences in theatre, TV, and film. They also talk about the importance of having conversations about movement in the industry and the diversity of voices and experiences within it. H...