Hi - I'm Helen. Thanks for visiting my site!
I am a stage director and intimacy choreographer based out of the DC metro area. My passion for the arts is rooted in the strong belief of the power of community and the importance of fostering open, creative, and safe working environments.
I am a stage director and intimacy choreographer based out of the DC metro area. My passion for the arts is rooted in the strong belief of the power of community and the importance of fostering open, creative, and safe working environments.
By way of background, I studied oboe for 12+ years and graduated from University of Miami's Frost School of Music with a BA in Music. I bring the same collaborative spirit to my current work as I did when playing in wind ensemble and orchestra. I also have training in classical ballet.
My training, empathy, and "spidey sense" make me an asset as an intimacy choreographer. I derive tremendous fulfillment by facilitating and advocating for artists, consent, and boundaries, in order to create and enhance their physical storytelling. To date I have worked with high school, college, amateur/community, and professional actors, and am able to provide references upon request.
Directing and assistant directing is also a joy - my work ethos is best summed up by Michael Bloom (author, Thinking Like a Director): "Ultimately, the director is a creator of communities - someone who can recognize talent and inspire the very best from other artists, lead them but welcome their contributions, and make everyone feel they are important partners."
Thank you again for visiting. I hope to work with you soon!
Thank you again for visiting. I hope to work with you soon!
Training & Certification
CERTIFICATION
- Mental Health First Aid - Adult (certified November 2021) from National Council for Mental Wellbeing
- Level II Foundations Training with Sasha Smith, Alicia Rodis, and Claire Warden, (Intimacy Directors and Coordinators)
- Best Practices Core Curriculum training with Theatrical Intimacy Education / Workshops: Staging Outercourse, Working With Minors
- Level I "Intimacy For The Stage" Three-Day Training Workshop with Tonia Sina and Claire Warden (Intimacy Directors International)
- Apprentice Stage Director with OperaNEO Festival & Workshop, CA
- Directing with Joy Zinoman- Studio Theatre, DC
- BA in Music/Minor in English - University of Miami, FL