In this episode of the Shapes in Motion Podcast, Stephen Moynihan is joined by Tom English, Artistic Director, lecturer, and specialist in performance psychology and training methodologies. Tom reflects on his journey from dance training and performance into research and teaching, drawing on experiences with immersive theatre company Punchdrunk, choreographer Wim Vandekeybus, and his own company, Ferus Animi//Terra Nova.

Together they explore the question: what makes a great performer? The conversation spans dance science, neuroscience, mindfulness, storytelling, and performance psychology, examining how these disciplines can help performers develop presence, authenticity, and adaptability. Tom shares insights into collaboration, creative practice, and the importance of understanding both the science and artistry behind exceptional performance.

This episode is packed with practical insights for performers, movement practitioners, educators, and anyone curious about the art and psychology of performance.

In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan explore the intricate relationship between sound, music, and movement across TV, film, and theatre. They discuss practical collaborations with sound designers and composers, the impact of soundscapes on performance, and the importance of research and cultural context in creating compelling work. They also discuss the role of voice, breath, and non-verbal sound, as well as their own personal musical influences.

In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan explore the intricate world of storyboarding, animatics, VFX, and motion capture in film, TV, and immersive experiences. They discuss collaboration, timing, and the technical artistry behind creating compelling visual stories.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan explore the art of collaboration across stage and screen. Focusing on the relationship between movement directors, choreographers, and departments such as costume, hair, makeup, and visual effects, they discuss the importance of early involvement and clear communication.

The conversation highlights how costume and VFX influence movement, the challenges of working with prosthetics or restrictive designs, and how strong creative collaboration ultimately supports performers and enhances visual storytelling.

In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan respond to listeners’ questions exploring empathy, connection, and authenticity within creative practice. From daily habits and creative influences to rest, risk, and personal growth, they reflect on how connection and self-awareness shape both the work and the artist.

In a thoughtful and light conversation, they explore empathy as a skill that underpins collaboration and communication across movement and performance. Alongside this, they share glimpses of the everyday, from morning coffee rituals and the quiet satisfaction (or resistance) of making the bed to time spent cooking and even a bit of tennis, revealing how these small, human moments contribute to a more sustainable and grounded creative life.

Have a question for a future episode? Email us at info@shapesinmotion.com we’d love to hear from you.

n this episode of the Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry is joined by jazz singer and lyricist Tina Carr to explore the deep connection between voice, body, and breath. Tina shares how movement shapes her unique vocal style, the influences behind her music, and how she navigates performance, wellbeing, and creative resilience. With insights into her latest album Moon Over Mildmay, this is an honest and inspiring conversation about expression, healing, and embodied artistry.

The conversation moves between the emotional depth of singing, the technical nuances of performance, and how Tina adapts her work across different spaces and audiences. She also speaks candidly about navigating pain, emotional challenges, and the ongoing balance between life and artistic practice. This episode is a thoughtful and uplifting exploration of how music, voice, and movement can connect, heal, and transform, both on and off the stage.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion Podcast, host Stephen Moynihan speaks with choreographer and movement director Charlotte Broom, Charlotte shares her journey from classical ballet training to a dynamic career across dance, theatre, and movement direction. They discuss her early training at the Royal Ballet School and her performing career with companies including Northern Ballet and the Cullberg Ballet, before moving into rehearsal direction with Ballet Black and co-creating the dance company HeadSpace Dance.

Charlotte also reflects on her work as a movement director and choreographer in theatre, including The Hunger Games on Stage with long-term collaborator, director Matthew Dunster, and shares insights into her creative approach to movement, storytelling, and collaboration. We also discuss her exciting upcoming projects, including Sherlock at Regent’s Park, and what continues to inspire her work today.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan delve into the complexities of transitioning from performer roles to creative positions within the industry. They discuss personal journeys, the importance of networking, and the challenges faced during career shifts. The conversation emphasises the significance of identity, the need for strategic planning, and the evolving landscape of the creative industry.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion Podcast, Stephen Moynihan speaks with choreographer and international dance artist Liam Francis, who shares his journey into dance. Reflecting on his early influences and training, Liam discusses how his career began with Zoonation Dance Company before becoming a leading dancer with Rambert Dance Company, where he performed works by some of the world’s most influential choreographers.

Liam speaks about the importance of mentorship, artistic curiosity, and the development of an embodied practice shaped by hip hop, contemporary dance, and ballet. He explores the idea of flow state in performance and how collaboration continues to shape his creative voice.

The conversation also highlights Liam’s recent choreographic work A Body of Rumours, a project centred on brotherhood, trust, and support among dancers, and his broader ambition to create a hybrid movement language that transcends traditional boundaries.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion Podcast, Stephen Moynihan and Sarah Perry explore the connection between aging, creativity, and personal growth. They reflect on how childhood influences shape creative paths, how the teenage years spark pivotal shifts, and how stepping into professional life often requires risk-taking and courage.

The conversation touches on the impact of worry and self-doubt on artistic expression, while also highlighting how aging can bring fresh energy, perspective, and clarity. Stephen and Sarah emphasise the importance of honouring lived and physical experiences, reflecting on the past, and embracing change as a creative force.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, host Sarah Perry speaks with Ita O’Brien, one of the world’s leading intimacy coordinators and the creator of the Intimacy On Set guidelines. Ita shares her journey through the performing arts and reflects on the evolving role of intimacy coordination across film, television, theatre, and opera.

Together, they explore the essential role of intimacy practitioners in Film and TV, and the importance of preparation, communication, collaboration, and consent in creating intimate scenes, as well as the challenges of implementing clear and supportive guidelines within the industry. Drawing on her experience on productions including Normal People, I May Destroy You, and Sex Education, Ita highlights the collaborative nature of intimacy coordination and the need for trauma-informed, performer-centred environments.

The conversation also touches on training in drama schools, student productions, before concluding with Ita’s book, Intimacy: A Field Guide to Finding Connection and Feeling Your Deep Desires (Penguin, 2025). offering further insights and inspiration for artists and practitioners working with intimacy in the performing arts.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, hosts Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan discuss the realities of juggling side hustles alongside your main work in the creative industry. They explore various perspectives from community voices, hearing from both emerging and established performers and creatives. Together, they reflect on how side hustles can offer financial stability while also enriching one's creative practice. They also share their own experiences, unpacking the benefits and the challenges and how to choose side hustles that truly support you and your work.

In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan reflect on their podcast journey over the past year, discussing memorable guests, insights gained, and the importance of valuing creativity, community and self-worth in the industry. They explore the diversity of experiences shared by their guests, the importance of having a platform and a voice, and the joy of collaboration - they even share some behind the scenes insights into the making of the podcast. Looking ahead to 2026, they express excitement for future episodes and the importance of community engagement.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, host Stephen Moynihan interviews Emma Farnell-Watson, a multifaceted artist navigating the worlds of dance, choreography, and acting. Emma shares her journey from her early experiences in contemporary dance to her current work in film and musical theatre. The conversation delves into the importance of community, the challenges of transitioning from company work to freelancing, and the creative processes behind her projects. Emma emphasises the significance of authenticity, mental wellbeing, and the value of building community relationships in the arts.

In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Stephen Moynihan is joined by award-winning Choreographer, Movement Director and Intimacy Director Shelley Maxwell. They discuss her wide-ranging career across musicals, plays, and feature films; and the nuanced differences between choreography and movement direction - distinct roles that call for different skills. Shelley also explores movement as an emotional language, how actors embody feeling, and the ways that movement directors can support that process. Finally, she reflects on the growing recognition of movement practitioners and how industry awards help highlight their vital contributions.

Discover how to build a meaningful creative portfolio career with clarity and confidence. In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan unpack the realities of multi-stranded creative work, from navigating fear, financial pressure, and burnout to understanding identity, purpose, and the “why” behind your choices. Together, they explore the challenges and fears that arise when roles don’t quite fit, and the freedom that comes from making decisions aligned with your long-term goals and values. A grounding, insightful conversation for anyone balancing multiple passions and shaping a creative career on their own terms.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion podcast, Stephen Moynihan and Sarah Perry discuss the significance of having a personal website for creatives. They share their personal experiences in building their websites, the importance of brand clarity, and how to effectively present oneself online. The conversation also touches on the role of social media, the necessity of search engine optimisation (SEO), and the value of showreels in showcasing work. Ultimately, they emphasise the need for simplicity and accessibility in online presence, encouraging creatives to enjoy the process of building their websites.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry and Stephen Moynihan discuss the complexities of using social media for professional visibility, the balance between personal and professional sharing, the challenges of networking, and the role of agents in the creative industry. They emphasise the importance of authentic communication, the need for self-promotion, and the value of building relationships within the industry. The conversation concludes with key takeaways on consistency in social media engagement and the importance of being proud of one's work and achievements.

In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry speaks with performer Brandon Lee Sears about his artistic journey, from early opera training to discovering dance and building a dynamic career in musical theatre. Brandon reflects on what it truly means to find one’s voice, both as a singer and as an artist with something to say. The conversation explores authenticity, creative fulfilment, and the courage it takes to speak up, collaborate, and stay true to one’s artistry in a demanding industry. He also shares insights into the challenges and triumphs along the way, offering valuable advice for emerging performers. Brandon’s stage credits include The Devil Wears Prada at the Dominion Theatre, Dreamgirls, Shrek the Musical, Motown the Musical, On the Town at Regent’s Park, and Passing Strange at the Young Vic.

In this episode of the Shapes in Motion Podcast, Stephen Moynihan speaks with renowned choreographer and movement director Kate Flatt OBE. Kate reflects on her extraordinary career spanning opera, theatre, musicals, and dance, including her work on the original Les Misérables in the West End. She shares stories of her training, international experiences, and the teachers who shaped her. Kate also offers insights into working with actors and singers, the role of a movement director, and the importance of curiosity, collaboration, and community in creative practice.