Theatrical Intimacy and COVID-19

In the midst of a pandemic, theatres and production companies are making impossible choices.

Theatrical Intimacy Education is calling for the suspension of all rehearsals and performances of physical intimacy and touch for the foreseeable future to limit the transmission of COVID-19. 

Many theatres and production companies have put production on hold. Others have not, leaving it up to actors to say whether or not they are comfortable participating in moments of intimacy or touch. It is critical to remember that the power dynamics of production are such that actors are unwilling or unable to say no, even if the opportunity is presented to them. This is a result not only of those power dynamics but of economic realities and conditioning from years of being trained to say “yes.”

Our first priority is to support ethical practices. The ethical thing for theatres, production companies, directors, and producers to do at this time is to suspend all rehearsals or performances involving physical intimacy and touch. Leaving it up to the actors puts them in a terrible position where they are forced to choose between their paycheck and the physical health of themselves and the broader community. 

The CDC advises staying home. If that is impossible, changing a moment of intimacy from something realistic to a stylized moment performed at a distance may be an option. If you are unsure how to do that, please reach out. We are happy to schedule a time to speak with you about strategies for moving forward. We are offering ourselves as a resource for the community at this time. 

Please email us at contact@theatricalintimacyed.com with any questions.

Best,
Chelsea & Laura
Co-Founders and Head Faculty

PDF of Press Release can be found here.