Intimacy Coordinator



Intimate scenes are challenging for actors because they require emotional and physical vulnerability, as well as a high level of trust and preparation. Actors must be comfortable with expressing complex emotions, physical touch, and potential discomfort on set. In recent years, there has been increased attention to the importance of providing support and guidance to actors during intimate scenes.

As a professional intimacy coordinator, I specialize in creating safe and respectful environments for intimate content in theatre, film, and TV. I ensure that there is agreement and consent for all aspects of intimate scenes, including touch, simulated sex, and nudity. This means that the whole process respects the individual and physical boundaries of the actors at all times.

I work closely with directors, actors, and other members of the production team to ensure that scenes involving intimacy are handled in a safe, respectful, and professional manner. As an intimacy coordinator, I provide support and guidance to actors before, during, and after the filming of such scenes, helping them to navigate the emotional and physical challenges that can arise. I also provide consent education to actors and help them feel comfortable and confident during intimate scenes.

By putting in place clear choreography and structure, which serves the director's vision and the scene's requirements, I help to desexualize the process for the actors. By providing a clear structure, the physicality of the scene will be well-defined, and the actors will be able to focus on their performance and bring their professional acting skills to the table. As an intimacy coordinator, my goal is to make intimate scenes safe and respectful for everyone involved, and to help create powerful and authentic performances.



In essence



I create a safe and respectful environment where everyone involved can feel confident in their roles. This results in high-quality physical storytelling that is emotionally compelling and resonates with audiences.

With over a decade of experience as a dancer, choreographer, and actor, I have a deep understanding of the emotional and physical demands of intimate scenes. As a social worker and cultural manager, I have also gained the skills to navigate complex emotional situations and support vulnerable populations. My diverse background and experience working both on stage and on set have given me a unique understanding of the theatre and film environments, allowing me to approach the role of an intimacy coordinator with sensitivity and professionalism.

In the past two years, I have taken courses and workshops from renowned experts in the field such as Julia Effertz (Berlin) and Intimacy Directors & Coordinators (New York). I am supported by the Austrian Film Institute and have continued my education with Culture Change Hub in Berlin and Theatrical Intimacy Education in the United States. Through these experiences, I have developed a deeper understanding of creating safe and respectful environments for intimate scenes in film and theater, which I am grateful to practice.














mail@bernadettemarialeitner.com
+43 660 768 12 85