016: From Page to Performance: Literature’s Role in Movement and Acting

“For me, it's very helpful to actually read out loud. And I find that particularly helpful when I'm reading stuff for work, because when I say the words, I have a physical experience of how the words are shaped. By hearing them out loud, it influences the possible movements.”

Stephen Moynihan

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.

Chapters

The Role of Literature in Creative Work

Connecting Literature and Performance

The Influence of Reading on Movement

Exploring the Power of Words

Infusing Literature into Creative Processes

Technical Approaches to Movement and Literature

Influences in Movement and Performance

Exploring Movement Techniques for Actors

Understanding Movement Through Historical Context

The Interplay of Psychology and Movement

Communication Skills in Creative WorkT

he Joy of Bookshops and World Building

Sarah’s 5 recommended reads:

‘Laban for All’, Jean Newlove

‘An Actor Prepares’, ‘Creating a Role’ and ‘Building a Character’, Stanislavski

‘The Complete Works of Shakespeare', William Shakespeare

‘Movement for Actors’ - edited by Nicole Potter

‘Physical Theatre: A Critical Introduction’, Simon Murray and John Keefe

Stephen’s 5 recommended reads:
‘Actor Movement: Expression of the Physical Being’, Vanessa Ewan & Debbie Green

‘The Frantic Assembly Book of Devising Theatre’, Scott Graham & Steven Hoggett

‘Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life: Life-Changing Tools for Healthy Relationships’, Marshall B. Rosenberg

‘Training the Actor's Body: A Guide’, Dick McCaw

‘The Empty Space’, Peter Brook

To get in touch with Sarah visit www.sarahperrymovement.com and follow @sarahperrymovement on Instagram.
To get in touch with Stephen visit www.stephenmoynihan.net and follow @stmoynihan on Instagram.