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Being the Movement Director for VERS at the Hen & Chickens Theatre was an exhilarating and formative experience. This production, comprising two one-act plays by F.L.J. Burge—The Dinner Scene and Poofs with Guns—offered a rich canvas for my debut in an official movement direction role. Though I had extensive training as a collaborative deviser, stepping into this position allowed me to explore and apply my techniques in new and challenging ways.
Working with a female-led company predominantly composed of LGBTQ+ creatives was both empowering and creatively stimulating. The inclusive environment fostered open collaboration, encouraging each team member to contribute authentically. This collective spirit was instrumental in shaping the physical storytelling elements of the show.
In Poofs with Guns, the use of Polari—a coded language historically used by gay men—added a unique layer to the performance. Integrating this with physical comedy and mime required a nuanced approach to movement, ensuring that the choreography complemented the linguistic elements and enhanced the narrative. The result was a dynamic and engaging portrayal that resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Critics praised the production for its energetic performances and effective use of movement The Reviews Hub (★★★★) (highlighted the "heightened staging choices" and the "enjoyable movement sequence" that opened Poofs with Guns, noting how these elements effectively dramatized the experience of the crime narrative. West End Best Friend (★★★★★) commended the cast and creative team for their "masterclass in physical comedy and prop-work," emphasizing the role of movement in bringing the stories to life.
This experience not only affirmed my passion for movement direction but also underscored the importance of collaborative storytelling in theatre. I'm grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a production that celebrated diversity, creativity, and the power of physical expression.
Naked Frank Theatre are a physical theatre company, who specialise in arts engagement to support mental healthrecovery. Founded in 2013 and artistically directed by Carleigh-Ann Portelli and Claire Louise Portelli, the company use performing arts to bring about social change, create opportunities for participation and exploration, reduce social isolation, promote self expression, instil confidence and self worth, challenge and test boundaries, enrich the experiences of vulnerable individuals and promote mental health recovery.
Collapse, renewal, and action in a world affected by climate change are the themed presented in this brand new show; an agglomeration of styles tangled together by the newly created company of talented puppeteers and puppet makers, who all met at the Curious School of Puppetry in 2025.
The show is at the first stage, after an initial R&D at Riverside Studio, the company will proceed developing the idea further - new exciting dates coming soon!
Inspired by several stories of separation, slow invasion and war, this new physical theatre experimental show is working to redefine how one sees a conflict and the implication in their daily life, with a focus on empathy and the lack of it, which seems nowadays quite the poignant point.