Episodes

  • 023: 'Exploring Movement Direction with Ayse Tashkiran'

    023: 'Exploring Movement Direction with Ayse Tashkiran'
    Aug 27 2025
    In this episode of the Shapes in Motion Podcast, Stephen is joined by movement director, teacher, and researcher Ayse Tashkiran. They trace Ayse’s journey from discovering her passion for theatre to training at the Lecoq School in Paris and developing her distinctive approach to movement direction. Ayse reflects on her creative process, the influence of her cultural background, and her work as a teacher at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. The conversation also explores her role in the Movement Directors Association, the challenges of recognition and advocacy in the field, and her writing, including her book Movement Directors in Contemporary Theatre, as a way of passing on knowledge to future generations.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    45 mins
  • 022: 'Russell Maliphant on Dance, Anatomy and the Art of Movement'

    022: 'Russell Maliphant on Dance, Anatomy and the Art of Movement'
    Aug 13 2025
    In this episode, Sarah Perry is joined by acclaimed dancer and choreographer Russell Maliphant to explore his remarkable journey through the world of dance. From his classical beginnings to his groundbreaking contemporary work, Russell reflects on how injuries shaped his understanding of movement and deepened his appreciation for anatomy and body mechanics. The conversation delves into his exploration of Rolfing, the creative fusion of anatomy and artistry, and the challenges and rewards of working with dancers across styles. Along the way, Russell shares insights on the lifelong nature of movement practice, his evolving creative process, and his plans for future teaching and workshops. Known for seamlessly integrating flow, energy, light, and music, Russell continues to inspire and redefine what movement-based performance can be.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    52 mins
  • 021: 'Alexandra Baybutt: Illuminating Bartenieff, Somatics, Presence & Performance'

    021: 'Alexandra Baybutt: Illuminating Bartenieff, Somatics, Presence & Performance'
    Jul 30 2025

    In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, Stephen Moynihan interviews Alexandra Baybutt; movement coach, artist, researcher, dramaturg, and educator, exploring her journey into dance and movement, the significance of somatic practices and the influence of Irmgard Bartenieff's work. They discuss the role of presence in performance, the importance of time management in the studio, and the ethics of knowledge transfer in teaching. Alexandra shares her experiences in higher education and the challenges faced in the arts, while also looking forward to future projects and collaborations.


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    45 mins
  • 020: 'Feldenkrais and Performance with Victoria Worsley: Doing Less, Discovering More;

    020: 'Feldenkrais and Performance with Victoria Worsley: Doing Less, Discovering More;
    Jul 16 2025
    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 how body awareness supports creativity, why habits shape identity, and how subtle, intentional movement can unlock new possibilities - not only for actors, but for anyone looking to enhance their physical awareness and overall well-being or creative self.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    48 mins
  • 019: 'Downtime as Creative Uptime: The In-Between Is the Work (Not Out of Work)'

    019: 'Downtime as Creative Uptime: The In-Between Is the Work (Not Out of Work)'
    Jul 2 2025
    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 balance, resilience, and self-investment, both in work and in the spaces between.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    43 mins
  • 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.
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    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.
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    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.
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    46 mins