Movement Direction: Developing Physical Narrative for Performance

Movement Direction in contemporary theatre production is increasingly recognised and valued as a significant component of the expressive art of bodily communication in live performance. From scene changes, to character development, to dance sequences, movement direction underpins all that we see on stage and screen. This comprehensive book traces the creativity, skills, and knowledge essential to the movement director employed within the context of performance making. Key concepts are combined with insightful accounts from experienced practitioners and supported by creative tasks aimed to develop curiosity, skill, and deeper understanding of this valuable craft. Topics covered include: what is Movement Direction?; the expressive body; the actor’s process; movement in time and space; working with dance forms; context, research, and planning; Movement Direction for plays and opera and finally, working with directors.

Kate Flatt has over forty years' experience as a movement director and theatre choreographer. She has worked nationally and internationally, in text-based theatre, film, dance, opera and musicals, notably on the original Les Miserables with the RSC. Trained in ballet and contemporary dance, she has also travelled widely, researching vernacular dance forms in their traditional context. She has worked collaboratively with directors on landmark productions at the National Theatre, the Young Vic, the Royal Opera, the Donmar and in the West End. She is a highly experienced workshop leader, teacher, and mentor to movement practitioners, in a range of performance contexts.