DIRECTING MOVEMENT. DEFINING STORIES.
Gemma Payne is a Movement Director and Choreographer creating dynamic, expressive movement for stage, screen and live performance.
Working closely with performers and creative teams, she brings ideas to life through movement that feels authentic, purposeful and always connected to the story.
Creating Movement. Shaping Performance. Supporting Talent.
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Gemma creates original choreography for film, television, theatre, opera and commercial productions, shaping movement that feels authentic to the performer, the story and the creative vision. From initial concept and movement research through to rehearsals and final performance, she works closely with directors, performers and creative teams to develop choreography with clarity, purpose and individuality. Drawing on her extensive performance and creative experience, Gemma is equally comfortable working with highly trained dancers, actors, singers and performers with little or no movement experience.
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Gemma’s movement direction focuses on actors, singers and musicians use movement with confidence, authenticity and purpose.
Working closely with the director and wider creative team, she explores how physicality can reveal character, strengthen relationships and support the storytelling, without movement ever feeling imposed or overly choreographed. From individual character work and physical language to ensemble movement and staging, Gemma creates a supportive rehearsal environment that enables performers of all movement backgrounds to feel comfortable, connected and completely at home in their performance.
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Gemma works closely with selected choreographers, directors and creative teams as an Associate Choreographer and Movement Director, helping to bring their creative vision from concept through rehearsal to stage and screen. Her collaborative and adaptable approach allows her to work confidently across a wide range of creative styles and productions, supporting the development, staging and delivery of movement and choreography. She has worked alongside leading creatives including Will Tuckett, Lynne Page, Drew McOnie, Ebony Molina and Sir David McVicar, bringing experience, sensitivity and a strong understanding of the creative process to every project.
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Alongside her work as a choreographer and movement director, Gemma brings her extensive industry experience into mentoring and education, supporting emerging performers and creatives as they develop their confidence, individuality and professional practice. Having worked with students at the Royal Northern College of Music, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts and Bird College, she offers practical, industry-led insight into movement, performance and the creative process. Her collaborative and supportive approach creates a space where individuals can explore their potential, strengthen their skills and develop the confidence to navigate a career in the performing arts.