053: Gecko: Physical Theatre, Ensemble and Devising with Amit Lahav
"I am really fascinated in human beings from all over the planet and I think that's very fundamental to the work. I'm interested in a really diverse understanding of what it feels like to be human. And that's reflected in the ensemble, I think."
Amit Lahav
In this episode of The Shapes in Motion Podcast, Sarah Perry is joined by Amit Lahav, founder and Artistic Director of the internationally acclaimed physical theatre company Gecko.
Together, they explore the experiences that have shaped Amit’s artistic voice and Gecko’s extraordinary creative journey. Their conversation delves into the company's detailed and deeply considered devising process, the importance of trust and human connection within an ensemble, and the curiosity, collaboration and willingness to embrace uncertainty that continue to drive Amit’s work.
About Amit Lahav
Amit Lahav is the founder and Artistic Director of Gecko, the internationally acclaimed physical theatre company he established in 2002. Born in Israel into a mixed Jewish family, he grew up between cultures and languages—an experience that has profoundly shaped his artistic voice and his exploration of identity, migration, belonging and human connection.
As a director, writer and choreographer, Amit has created acclaimed productions including The Arab and the Jew, The Overcoat, Missing, Institute, The Wedding, Kin and From Here On. His work combines physical theatre, music and visual storytelling to explore complex social and political themes through a deeply human lens.
Alongside Gecko, Amit founded Dream Awake Productions to develop work across theatre, immersive experiences and film. He also mentors artists and organisations, championing a creative practice rooted in curiosity, collaboration, rigour and a willingness to embrace uncertainty.
Chapters
Intro and Welcome
Amit Lahav's roots and early influences in arts
Discovering a passion for performance and theatre
Shared history and small world connections
Training in physical theatre and early career
Founding Gecko and the importance of long development
The detailed, iterative process of creating theatre
The role of trust and human connection in ensemble
The complexity and richness of physical theatre
The importance of patience and detailed exploration
Funding, trust, and the value of slow creation
Building a diverse and human-centered ensemble
The journey of the production Kin and migration stories
Gecko’s journey - 25 years
Reflections on industry challenges and resilience
Memorable moments of crisis and recovery
The power of community and support in tough times
Looking ahead: the future of the arts and personal growth
Links:
Website: https://www.geckotheatre.com/
Instagram: @GeckoTheatre
Instagram @amitlahavgecko
Gecko - Ķīn - Sadler's Wells East - Sadler's Wells - January 2027
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.