An Interview with Ian West

What Ian brings to the role of an Intimacy Coordinator | Director

Ian brings a unique blend of sensitivity, professionalism, artistic vision, and much-needed humour to every project as an Intimacy Coordinator | Director.

Ian’s recent work includes serving as Intimacy Coordinator and Intimacy Director on a range of high-profile film, television, and theatre productions.

His current and recently completed projects include:

  • The Agency – Paramount+ with Showtime, starring Richard Gere and Michael Fassbender.
  • Half Man – HBO/BBC, starring Jamie Bell and Richard Gadd, directed by Eshref Reybrouck.
  • The Dark – ITV Studios and Poison Pen, directed by Gilles Bannier.
  • Counsels – BBC/Ballon Productions, directed by Lynsey Miller.
  • Sunny Dancer – 27 Ten Productions/Athenaeum, directed by George Jaques, starring Bella Ramsey.
  • Men Up – BBC/Quay Productions/Boom, directed by Ashly Way, with Executive Producer Russell T Davies. (Ian served as Intimacy Coordinator Cover).
  • Mission – Early Day Films, 65 Wilding Films, directed by Paul Wright and starring George MacKay. (Currently in post-production).
  • Curfew – EE Commercial, directed by Danial Wolfe.

His intimacy direction can also currently be seen in:

VIEW IAN'S CV

With extensive experience in TV, Film, and Theatre, Ian has developed a nuanced understanding of choreography and movement direction, which, coupled with his specialised intimacy training with Intimacy on set (IOS), allows him to navigate the multifaceted role of an Intimacy Coordinator/ Director effectively.

He works closely with directors, actors, and department heads to ensure that scenes involving intimacy, nudity, and simulated sexual content are communicated effectively and handled with the utmost care and respect. 

Ian recognises the importance of choreographing scenes in a way that seamlessly integrates the artistic vision of the director whilst advocating for all involved.

Prioritising Safety and Comfort

Ian prioritises the safety and comfort of both actors and crew members while ensuring the artistic vision of the project is upheld.

He is committed to advocating for the well-being and inclusivity of all individuals involved in any production he supports.

In addition to his 25 years of experience in theatre, TV, and film, and his SAG-AFTRA accredited intimacy training with Intimacy On Set (IOS), Ian is also a qualified Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) and holds a clean Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS certification available upon request).

Ian’s additional certifications and training include

  • Disability Awareness Training
  • Practical Accredited (Children’s Regulation Training) P.A.R.T. (City and Guilds Accredited)
  • Creative Industries Safety Passport (BECTU – IOSH)
  • Bullying and Harassment for Employees
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
  • Mental Health Awareness
  • Safeguarding Children (Level 2)
  • Sexual Harassment Awareness
  • Unconscious Bias
  • LGBTQI+ Awareness

Ian is also a member of Equity and the BECTU Intimacy Branch.

Intimacy 360 - Pedagogue

Ian is a versatile professional with extensive experience in both the performing arts and education sectors. Alongside his work as an Intimacy Director, Coordinator, and Choreographer in TV, film, and theatre, he is also a qualified and respected lecturer and educator with over 25 years of experience. Ian has made significant contributions to several prestigious institutions in the UK and is currently serving as the intimacy advisor for Birds Conservatoire London, Ian has conducted workshops for both faculty and students at institutions such as LAMDA, Performers College, Tring Park , Fourth Monkey,  Glasgow City, and West College Scotland, among others.

Ian’s passion lies in sharing his expertise on intimacy for live performance and Tv and Film and works closely with facility and learners in performing arts and drama schools supporting productions when an intimacy director/coordinator is required.

Ian feels it’s imperative that students and faculty develop self-advocacy and a deeper understanding of the intimacy landscape in the performing arts,

Through Ian’s intimacy workshops he aims to empower students and faculty with a deeper understanding and knowledge of consent-based practice, equipping them with the necessary skills to apply the Intimacy guidelines to their own practice.

Ian guides students to develop techniques to establish safe and supportive environments for intimacy in their work, emphasising effective communication of consent and boundaries during rehearsals in preparation for performances, coupled with an understanding of the difference between self-advocacy and the importance of when an Intimacy practitioner is needed.

Ian’s dedication to fostering a culture of safety, respect, and professionalism in performing arts education makes him an invaluable asset to any learning environment.

Doreen Bird College of Performing Arts

3-year Scholarship

University of Aberdeen

PG Cert

Intimacy on Set

SAG AFTA Accredited Training