Recognition of Movement Directors in Theatre Awards

The Equity group representing choreographers and movement directors has raised concerns regarding the lack of recognition for movement directors at prestigious theatre awards, particularly the Olivier Awards. While the recent ceremony acknowledged choreography by awarding Fabian Aloise for his work on *Evita*, the absence of a dedicated category for movement directors has sparked a broader discussion about the value and visibility of these professionals in the theatre industry.

The Guardian

Movement direction plays a crucial role in theatre, contributing to the physical language of productions and enhancing storytelling, character development, and overall drama. Although many choreographers also serve as movement directors, the two roles are often filled by different individuals. The Choreographers and Movement Directors Network (CMDN) emphasizes that movement direction is not solely about dance but is essential to how a production is perceived and experienced.

The Guardian

The CMDN, established in 2023 by movement director and choreographer Polly Bennett, aims to elevate the visibility and respect for movement directors within the theatre community. The network has over 200 members and advocates for the inclusion of movement direction in award categories. Ellen Kane, a steering group member, has publicly questioned the absence of awards for choreography in major ceremonies, drawing parallels to the recognition given in film awards like the Oscars and Baftas.

The Guardian

In a statement following the Olivier Awards, the CMDN expressed appreciation for the recognition of choreography but highlighted the need for movement directors to be acknowledged as well. They stated, “If we celebrate the impact of physical storytelling, we must also evolve how we acknowledge the artists behind it.” The CMDN also praised the Black British Theatre Awards for their inclusion of movement direction in their choreography category, contrasting it with the UK Theatre Awards and Critics’ Circle Theatre Awards, which lack such categories.

The Guardian

The CMDN's call for recognition has been echoed by various theatre professionals, who have signed petitions advocating for the inclusion of additional categories, such as video design, in the Olivier Awards. This push aims to reflect the evolving nature of the performing arts and enhance inclusivity within the awards framework. Critics argue that the current system inadequately represents the diverse contributions of all artists involved in theatre production.

The Guardian

The ongoing discussions surrounding the recognition of movement directors and other technical roles in theatre are likely to continue, with industry professionals advocating for changes in award structures. The CMDN and its supporters aim to influence future award ceremonies to better reflect the contributions of all artists, ensuring that movement direction receives the acknowledgment it deserves.

The Guardian

• “We want to spotlight the movement directors whose work has been integral to some of the year’s most powerful productions: Leanne Pinder for Punch, Sarah Golding for Kenrex, Imogen Knight for [the opera] Dead Man Walking, Jenny Ogilvie for Into the Woods, Sung Im Her for The Glass Menagerie, Lucy Hind for Inter Alia and Kloé Dean for The Boy at the Back of the Class.” — CMDN

The Guardian

• “If we celebrate the impact of physical storytelling, we must also evolve how we acknowledge the artists behind it.” — CMDN

The Guardian