What does ‘consent-forward’ mean?
Consent-forward theatrical practices come from the relatively new field of intimacy direction and coordination.
Scenes of simulated physical intimacy and nudity on professional stages and film sets are increasingly being choreographed by intimacy directors (on stage) and coordinators (in film). Just like a dance or fight choreographer, intimacy directors and coordinators make sure that the story of the script is being told in a way that makes sense, meets the director’s needs for the story and works within the boundaries of the actors’ personal and professional needs. Intimacy directors and coordinators act as harm-reducers, making sure that consent is fully granted from all participants and ensuring that each time the simulated acts are performed, they are done in a fully rehearsed and agreed upon way.
Unlike when a person says no to an act of intimacy in a personal relationship, intimacy work in film and on stage provides a way for actors to say no and have the work of the production continue. Actors are given the power to say “No, but…” when working with an intimacy professional. As in “no, my coworker can’t touch my shoulder, but they can touch my arm.” Establishing and respecting boundaries and then proceeding with the work in a way that does not cross those boundaries while continuing to tell the story is the core of intimacy work.
Intimacy work centers consent in an effort to reduce harm and redistribute the power in a rehearsal or production process. By ensuring that the actors have a say in what they are and are not willing to do with each other and within the context of the script that is being performed, the actors are given power on par with the director.
Consent-forward practices center consent in every creative environment - regardless of whether scenes of simulated intimacy and nudity are involved - and work towards redistributing power dynamics in classroom, rehearsal and performance spaces. When every person in the room has autonomy over their own actions, real growth can happen within the space.
Learn More
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IDC
Intimacy Directors and Coordinators offers a pathway for those looking to become certified intimacy professionals, as well as resources for artists and educators who want to incorporate consent-forward principles into their own work
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The Anti-Racist Writing Workshop
Felicia Rose-Chavez offers some incredible resources on how to decolonize not just a writing classroom, but any creative classroom.
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Contact
Are you interested in bringing a workshop to your organization? Would you like to learn more about applying consent work to comedy spaces? Let’s talk.