034: 'Intimacy On Set: A Conversation with Ita O’Brien'

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.

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