Elevating Performances:
How We Make a Difference
Intimacy Coordinators United (ICU) elevates performances with meaningful communication, safe intimacy practices and powerful movement direction for film and stage productions across Canada, US & UK. Based in Toronto, our team of expert movement directors collaborates with actors and productions to craft authentic physical interactions that enhance storytelling and emotional depth.
We are dedicated to creating a safe and respectful environment where actors feel empowered to deliver their best performances. Through clear communication and consent-forward practices, we ensure that intimate scenes are well-rehearsed and contribute to the overall impact of the production.
Lights, Camera, Safe Intimacy!
Explore our project showcase, a curated collection of film posters highlighting the diverse range of stories where Intimacy Coordinators United (ICU) has played a key role. Our collaboration with filmmakers ensures safe and impactful portrayals of intimacy, elevating the storytelling on the silver screen. Witness the power of ICU's expertise in bringing powerful and respectful intimacy to life in film.
Bringing Intimacy to Life Onstage
Delve into a curated collection of stage productions where Intimacy Coordinators United (ICU) has ensured safe and impactful portrayals of intimacy. Through this video montage of posters and project titles, discover the diverse range of plays, dance productions and musicals where we've fostered collaboration between directors, actors, dancers and the entire production team. Witness how ICU contributes to elevating the emotional depth and artistry of onstage intimacy, enriching storytelling for both performers and audiences.
Our Approach
At Intimacy Coordinators United (ICU), we believe powerful storytelling deserves a safe and respectful foundation. Our collaborative approach centers on open communication with directors, actors, and the entire production team. We begin by delving into the script, ensuring the portrayal of intimacy aligns with the narrative and character development. Our team then works closely with actors to establish clear boundaries and comfort levels, choreographing intimate scenes with precision and sensitivity. Safety is paramount, so we create detailed nudity riders and conduct thorough risk assessments. Throughout the process, we act as advocates for both cast and crew, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels empowered to deliver their best work.
Intimacy coordinators are essential for any production that involves intimate scenes, including those with nudity, simulated sex, or high emotional content.
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Any scenes involving intimacy, simulated sex, nudity, or high emotional content, ICU will apply best practices and protocols.
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Acting as a liaison between production and actors to enhance communication.
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Providing movement coaching for scenes with intimacy, simulated sex, and/or nudity, including choreography as necessary.
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Advocating for consent and ensure the well-being of actors both personally and professionally.
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Supporting cast, crew, and production in the staging and communications surrounding intimate content on set and in pre-production.
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Intimacy coordinators play a crucial role in ensuring safe, respectful, and authentic portrayals of intimacy on stage and screen.
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To apply best practices and protocols for scenes involving intimacy, simulated sex, nudity, or high emotional content.
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Act as a liaison between production and actors to enhance communication.
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Provide movement coaching for scenes with intimacy, simulated sex, and/or nudity, including choreography as necessary.
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Advocate for consent and ensure the well-being of actors both personally and professionally.
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To support cast, crew, and production in the staging and communications surrounding intimate content on set and in pre-production.
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The benefits and value that Intimacy Coordinators United provides.
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Collectively, over 30 years of professional experience in choreography, direction and movement.
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Risk Assessments based on scripts.
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Support during casting for transparency.
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Working collaboratively with directors and productions.
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Choreography and assisting directors with blocking.
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Administration support — riders, coordinating departments.
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Patience during challenging situations.
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A consent-forward approach.
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Open communication.
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Practices for tagging in/out, establishing boundaries, and receiving consent in a timely manner.
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Feature Podcasts
In the Spotlight: Our Expertise on Podcasts
Intimacy coordination is a growing field, and we're proud to be part of the conversation! Explore the podcasts below to hear Intimacy Coordinators United (ICU) discuss the importance of safe and impactful intimacy in film, stage, and beyond.
Making Headlines: ICU in the Media
Intimacy coordination is a vital aspect of productions, and we're proud to share our knowledge through insightful articles. Discover the latest insights from Intimacy Coordinators United (ICU).
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What People Are Saying
A few words from our clients..
"As a director, I felt extremely supported having Christina on set and involved with Feeling Fine. I feel grateful for her expertise, openness & beautiful creative mind."
Fateema Al-Hamaydeh-Miller Writer/Director
Feeling Fine, short
“Thank you for existing in the space that you do. I am immensely grateful. Because of the work you do; your professional, connected, gentle, patient and knowledgeable approach; I am able to walk away from this role feeling positive with a great sense of accomplishment.”
L.A. Sweeney | Actress
LAST RESORT, feature film
“Anisa is incredible to work with as a director and producer. She brings her knowledge of movement, creativity and care to the work. She understands story and how intimacy is integral to the work, all while keeping actors supported on set.”
Lauren Grant | Director & Producer
Clique Pictures
Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge the remarkable opportunity to reside and work on this land which is the territory of the Huron-Wendat, the Anishinaabe, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, the Wendat peoples, and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. We are grateful to be able to live, and create on Turtle Island; a sacred land that has been a site for human activity for over 15,000 years.
