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.

Choreography is the highly creative process of interpreting and coordinating movement, music and space in performance. By tracing different facets of development and exploring the essential artistic and practical skills of the choreographer, this book offers unique insights for apprentice dance makers. With key concepts and ideas expressed through an accessible writing style, the creative tasks and frameworks offered will develop new curiosity, understanding, skill and confidence. The chapters cover the key areas of engagement including what is a choreographer?; getting started; improvisation and ideas; context, stage geometry and atmosphere; movement as dance in time and space; solo, duet, trio and group choreography and finally, structure and the 'choreographic eye'. This is an ideal companion for dancers and dance students wanting to express their ideas through choreography and develop their skills to effectively articulate them in performance.