Director Overview & Pre-Meeting Notes for Scenes with Intimacy

Intimacy
Written By Lynn Panting

What is Intimacy Direction?

Intimacy direction supports storytelling in moments involving sensual interactions, simulated sex acts, hyper-exposed work, and nudity by ensuring the work is:

  • Clear in intention

  • Repeatable and safe

  • Built with performer consent

  • Sustainable over time

It brings the same level of structure and care to intimate material as choreography or fight direction.

About My Work

My work is grounded in:

  • Clear storytelling

  • Performer care and autonomy

  • Practical, repeatable staging

  • A collaborative, human-first process

I approach intimacy direction as both a creative and logistical practice. The goal is always to serve the story while protecting the people telling it.

How I Work

I begin with the purpose of contact in the scene and translate that into staging that aligns with both the story and performer boundaries.

There are two primary ways this work can be built:

Structured Approach

  • Movement is set step-by-step

  • Clear, repeatable choreography

  • Best for tight timelines or less experienced performers

Collaborative Approach

  • I guide a structured container process where actors contribute within clear boundaries

  • Movement is developed in the room

  • Best when time and experience allow

All work remains:

  • Clearly staged

  • Consent-based

  • Repeatable for performance

The approach depends on the needs of the production.

What You Can Expect

  • A harassment-free, professional working environment

  • Clear language around intimate moments

  • A process that supports personal boundaries and storytelling

Before We Meet

If useful, here are a few things you might consider in advance of our meeting:

  • What function do these intimate moments serve in the story?

  • What’s your vision of the intimate scene?

    • Degree of nudity

    • Specific actions

    • Positioning

  • What tone or audience experience are you aiming for?

  • How do you like to work with collaborators?

  • What is your rehearsal timeline for these scenes?

Next Step

We’ll meet to:

  • Talk through your vision of the intimate scene

  • Flag any concerns you might have

  • Determine the best process for your production

Lynn Panting
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Actor Overview & Pre-Meeting Notes for Scenes with Intimacy